VAR Decision Sparks Outrage at Anfield
Liverpool suffered a fresh wave of VAR frustration on Saturday as a controversial Nottingham Forest goal was allowed to stand, a decision that immediately drew comparisons to a recent incident involving Virgil van Dijk. The pivotal moment occurred in the 33rd minute at Anfield, leaving Arne Slot and Liverpool supporters bewildered.
The Controversial Corner
Nottingham Forest defender Murillo fired home from the centre of the area after Liverpool failed to clear a tricky corner. The immediate concern for the Reds was Dan Ndoye standing in an offside position directly in front of goalkeeper Alisson Becker as the ball crossed the line. Despite a VAR review, the goal was given, dealing a significant blow to Liverpool's momentum.
This decision appeared particularly harsh given the precedent set earlier this month. Before the international break, Virgil van Dijk saw a headed goal against Manchester City disallowed under remarkably similar circumstances. On that occasion, Andy Robertson was penalised for standing in an offside position in front of City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Inconsistent Rulings Questioned
The inconsistency between these two decisions has prompted serious questions about VAR's application. Martin Keown has publicly questioned why Murillo's effort was validated when Van Dijk's was chalked off. The Dutch defender's disallowed header at the Etihad Stadium could have potentially changed the outcome of that match, which Liverpool ultimately lost 3-0.
For Liverpool fans, this latest VAR controversy represents another bitter pill to swallow in a season already marked by contentious officiating decisions. The team walked away from this contest empty-handed, with Forest's goal setting the tone for a disappointing result.
