The recent Premier League match between Liverpool and Manchester City was marred by a controversial moment in the closing stages. A challenge between Jeremy Doku of Manchester City and Alexis Mac Allister of Liverpool sparked a penalty claim, leaving fans and pundits divided. The on-field referee waved away the appeal, but the decision was reviewed by VAR (Video Assistant Referee). Here, we delve into the details of the incident and explore why VAR ultimately sided with the referee’s original call of “no penalty.”
The Challenge:
Late in the game, Doku attempted to win the ball from Mac Allister inside the Liverpool penalty area. Both players went for the challenge with raised boots, with Doku making contact with the ball first but also catching Mac Allister high on the shin with his follow-through.
The Controversy:
Liverpool players and fans erupted in protest, arguing for a penalty due to Doku’s high foot. However, VAR’s decision was to uphold the on-field call, leaving many confused.
Why Did VAR Say “Both Come In High”?:
Here’s a breakdown of the reasoning behind VAR’s decision:
- Intention vs. Outcome: While Doku’s foot was high, the primary focus for a foul is a player’s intent. Did Doku go in with a reckless challenge aimed at injuring Mac Allister, or was it a genuine attempt to play the ball?
- Challenge on the Ball: Doku did make contact with the ball first, which weakens the argument for a clear foul. Accidental contact while playing the ball is generally not penalized.
- Minimal Contact on Mac Allister: Replays showed Doku’s foot brushing Mac Allister’s shin rather than a full-on impact. This minimal contact might not be enough to warrant a penalty.
The Importance of Context:
VAR’s decision-making often hinges on context. Referees and VAR officials consider the overall flow of the game, the severity of the challenge, and the potential for an advantage gained by the player making the challenge.
Ongoing Debate:
The Doku-Mac Allister incident continues to spark debate. Some fans argue for stricter enforcement of high challenges, while others believe the decision was fair considering Doku’s attempt to win the ball.
Conclusion:
The “both come in high” explanation from VAR highlights the complexities of analyzing these challenges. While high boots can be dangerous, intent, degree of contact, and the focus on playing the ball are all crucial factors in determining a foul. The Doku-Mac Allister incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenge for VAR in ensuring consistent and fair decision-making in the fast-paced world of football.
