Liverpool managed to beat Wolves 4-0 at Anfield, with the fans returning to watch their team in action. While the fact that actual people returned to the stands was definitely one of the best things about the match, there was another positive to the game.
VAR has been the subject of mass criticism in the Premier League, especially after many controversial decisions. However, last night was a great example of how technology can be used in a positive fashion.
Sadio Mane tackled Wolves skipper Connor Coady in the Liverpool box shortly after Salah opened the scoring. As one can assume, the Englishman went down and the referee pointed to the spot.
The incident was then looked at using VAR, as is the case with all penalties. Shortly after, the decision was reversed as the replay clearly showed Mane pulling out of the tackle and Coady diving in the box to get the spot-kick in favour of his team.
The on-field referee was in charge of overturning the decision after VAR advised him to have a look for himself. Former Liverpool striker Peter Crouch applauded the correct decision made by the on-field referee, saying:
“VAR has worked like a dream tonight. When it happens in real-time I thought “penalty” as most people did but Mane pulls out of it.”
“The reaction of the Liverpool players (says it all), the fans were incensed. Conor Coady looked a bit sheepish and the correct decision was made.”
Liverpool went on to dominate the game, and ended the match 4-0. Salah, Wijnaldum and Matip scored for the Champions, whereas Nelson Semedo scored an own goal in the 78th minute.
After losing Raul Jimenez to the freak injury last week, Wolves must find a way to retain composure and get the best out of their upcoming fixtures.
