The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) has weighed in on the controversial Merseyside Derby incident involving James Tarkowski of Everton and Alexis Mac Allister of Liverpool.
PGMOL admitted that Tarkowski should have been sent off for his high tackle on Mac Allister, which only resulted in a yellow card from referee Sam Barrott. VAR did not intervene, deeming the decision not a clear and obvious error.
Tarkowski’s challenge, which struck Mac Allister high on the leg, sparked widespread debate. Former referee Mike Dean expressed shock at the decision, while Everton manager David Moyes acknowledged Tarkowski was fortunate to avoid a red card.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot chose not to dwell on the issue, stating it was “so obvious” that he preferred to focus on his team’s performance and Diogo Jota’s decisive goal.
PGMOL later clarified that the tackle met the threshold for “serious foul play,” as defined by Law 12 of the FA handbook, which warrants a red card.
This admission has reignited concerns about VAR consistency and officiating standards in high-stakes matches like the Merseyside Derby.
Despite the controversy, Liverpool’s 1-0 victory helped maintain their 12-point lead over Arsenal in the Premier League title race.
