The use of VAR and semi-automated offside technology in the Premier League has been thrust back into the spotlight following a fiercely debated decision in Liverpool's 2-2 draw with Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday.
Controversy Erupts Over Equaliser
The flashpoint occurred when Liverpool's German midfielder, Florian Wirtz, found the net in the second half to make the score 1-1. The goal, assisted by Conor Bradley, was immediately flagged for offside by the assistant referee, prompting Fulham's initial relief.
However, after a review using the league's much-discussed semi-automated offside technology, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) instructed the on-field official to overturn the call, judging Wirtz to be onside. The goal was subsequently awarded, sparking instant controversy that has continued to rage.
Pundits Unite in Criticism
Leading football figures have overwhelmingly questioned the technology's conclusion. Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Match of the Day host Gary Lineker and Premier League legend Alan Shearer expressed clear doubts.
"In football, you are talking fine margins," Shearer stated. "Fine margins helped them get the Wirtz goal because, looking at that, I thought it was offside." Lineker echoed the sentiment, calling the incident "bizarre" and questioning the alignment of the graphical line used, adding, "they've got this automated thing that we're trying to trust."
Their view was supported by Liverpool icon Jamie Carragher, commentating live for Sky Sports. "He looks offside to me," Carragher admitted. "He looks like he's further forward. I know sometimes the angles can fool you, but the fact we've got the penalty spot to look at, I just can't believe that's been given."
Former Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer also weighed in on BBC Radio 5 Live, noting, "Looking at replays of that Liverpool goal, every frame that they stop at it looks offside. It's a strange one."
Wirtz's Admission and Fulham's Dramatic Late Reply
Intriguingly, even the goalscorer himself confessed to being unconvinced. "I was sure it was offside so I didn't even celebrate," Florian Wirtz revealed after the match. "I was happy that I scored but I'd rather take the three points."
Liverpool appeared to have secured those three points when substitute Cody Gakpo scored in the 94th minute to put the Reds 2-1 ahead. Yet, in a dramatic twist, Fulham's Harrison Reed struck a spectacular 25-yard equaliser in the 97th minute to snatch a share of the spoils.
"Yes that's true, I thought that [his goal was the winner]," a disappointed Gakpo told Match of the Day. "The moment I sat down on the bench they scored. It's disappointing for us... they scored in minute 97 - a wonderful goal to be fair. Unlucky, unfortunate."
The draw leaves lingering questions over the precision and perception of officiating technology, with high-profile pundits and players alike demanding clarity on a decision that proved pivotal in a thrilling Premier League encounter.
