Liverpool fans were left bewildered by VAR after Virgil van Dijk escaped punishment for an off-the-ball shoulder charge on Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon. Many supporters were expecting a review of the incident, as it appeared to be a clear foul, but VAR did not intervene. The decision sparked confusion among fans, with some questioning the consistency of VAR in similar situations. The lack of action on the incident added to the frustration following Liverpool’s defensive struggles in the match.
Just minutes after Alexander Isak’s stunning opening goal for Newcastle, Anthony Gordon had a golden opportunity to double the lead. The forward raced past Joe Gomez and found himself one-on-one with Liverpool’s goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, but his shot went straight into Kelleher’s hand. Shortly after that missed chance, captain Virgil van Dijk made a cheeky shoulder charge on Gordon inside the penalty box. The incident went unnoticed by both the referee and VAR, leaving fans puzzled as to why no action was taken despite the clear contact.
Fans on social media were quick to react to Van Dijk’s actions, with many questioning VAR’s role in the incident.
Jordan Cronin on X pointed out Van Dijk’s intent, writing, “Look at Virgil van Dijk here. He knows exactly what’s doing. What’s the point of VAR?”
Sam called the situation “ridiculous,” adding, “Body check from Van Dijk goes unpunished!? Ridiculous.”
Sam Nevin suggested favoritism towards Liverpool, saying, “Didn’t realise you could just smash into players if your keeper has the ball… oh wait, it’s Liverpool.”
Chris Conway also raised concerns about VAR, asking, “That was a cynical, deliberate shoulder into Gordon’s face from Van Dijk. VAR declines to take a look… And the point of VAR is?”
Michael White took aim at Van Dijk, stating, “Van Dijk is the most protected footballer on earth, that’s pretty low from the big fella, definitely a deliberate shoulder to the head on Gordon. Obviously no action.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
The visitors restored parity through Curtis Jones’ brilliant strike in the 50th minute before Gordon finally found the back of the net to make it 2-1. Salah then equalised for the Reds before putting his team in the front for the first time in the game in the 83rd minute. However, Fabian Schar’s late goal made sure that the Magpies walked away with at least a point.
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WHAT NEXT FOR LIVERPOOL?
With Chelsea securing a thumping 5-1 win over Southampton on the same night, Arne Slot’s side saw their lead at the top of the Premier League table reduced to seven points. They will be next seen in action on Saturday in the Merseyside derby against arch-rivals Everton.