PGMOL Admit Huge Error in Merseyside Derby as VAR Paul Tierney Faces Backlash Ahead of Manchester Derby
Everton’s Tarkowski Should Have Seen Red, but VAR's Controversial Decision Raises Questions as Tierney Prepares for Another Big Game
The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) has admitted in private that Everton defender James Tarkowski should have been sent off for a dangerous tackle on Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister during Wednesday’s Merseyside derby. This admission has sparked fresh concerns about VAR decisions and the overall standard of refereeing in the Premier League.
The incident happened in the 11th minute at Anfield when Tarkowski went in hard to clear the ball. Although he made contact with the ball first, his follow-through caught Mac Allister high on the leg with his studs. Pundits were quick to call it a “potential leg-breaker,” and many felt a red card was clearly deserved.
Despite this, referee Sam Barrott gave only a yellow card. VAR official Paul Tierney reviewed the incident and agreed with the on-field decision, deciding it was not a “clear and obvious error.” However, behind the scenes, PGMOL has now confirmed that this was the wrong call.
According to Law 12, any tackle that endangers the safety of a player with excessive force is considered serious foul play and should result in a red card. PGMOL has accepted that Tarkowski’s challenge met this standard and that a red card should have been shown.
What’s even more surprising is that Paul Tierney, the same VAR official who failed to correct the decision, has now been named VAR for this weekend’s Manchester Derby at Old Trafford. Despite the criticism he received for his part in the Liverpool-Everton game, he has not been removed from duty.
This decision has raised concerns, especially since in April 2023, referee Michael Salisbury was dropped from the next round of fixtures after a similar error in a Brighton match. Back then, PGMOL Chief Howard Webb even issued a public apology to Brighton.
The Manchester Derby is one of the biggest games of the season and could have a huge impact on who qualifies for the Champions League. The fact that Tierney is still being trusted with such an important role, just days after a major mistake, has left many fans confused and frustrated.
At the moment, there’s no word on whether the Premier League might step in and remove Tierney before Sunday’s big game. However, with emotions already high, many fans will be watching closely to see how VAR decisions are handled in the Derby.