Premier League explains VAR penalty decision in favor of Southampton in clash against Liverpool
The Premier League have explained why Southampton were awarded a controversial penalty against Liverpool in their league game on Sunday, November 24. The two sides locked horns at St Mary's Stadium, and the Reds took the lead through Dominik Szoboszlai in the 30th minute.
However, the talking point of the game arrived towards the end of the first half. Andrew Robertson was deemed to have fouled Tyler Dibling and referee Samuel Barrot paused for a while before pointing towards the Liverpool box. The replays showed that the foul may have occurred outside the penalty area. VAR had a long look at the incident and ultimately upheld Barrot's decision.
Robertson pleaded with the referee to check the screen, but it was to no avail. Southampton's Adam Armstrong stepped up to take the penalty and while his initial attempt was saved by Caoimhin Kelleher, he scored from the rebound.
The Premier League Match Center soon issued a statement via social media. It stated that there was no conclusive evidence to prove that the foul was outside the box. The statement read:
"The referee’s call of penalty for the challenge by Robertson on Dibling is checked and confirmed by VAR, who deemed there was no conclusive evidence that the contact occurred outside the penalty area."
Liverpool were 2-1 down in the 56th minute following Mateus Fernandes' strike. However, Mohamed Salah soon stepped up, scoring a brace - including a penalty - to secure a 3-2 win.
How many games have Liverpool won this season?
Liverpool have been outstanding under Arne Slot so far and are eight points clear at the top of the Premier League table after 12 games. The Reds have won 10 and lost just once in the league this season.
The Dutch manager took charge at Anfield this summer following Jurgen Klopp's departure. The Merseyside club had a quiet summer transfer window, but Slot has managed to make the most of the squad at his disposal.
His team have scored 24 goals in 12 games in the league, conceding just eight, the least in the league. Liverpool have also been flawless in the Champions League, winning all four games so far. They have scored 10 goals and conceded just one so far and are leading the European table at the moment.
The Reds have also reached the quarterfinals of the EFL Cup, scoring eight goals in their two games in the tournament. They will face Southampton away in the quarter-finals on December 18. Arne Slot's men have won 16 of their 18 games across competitions this season.