Liverpool receive fresh referee ruling on Hugo Ekitike penalty controversy after heated appeals vs Leeds

Liverpool and Hugo Ekitike were controversially denied a penalty during their goalless draw against Leeds United at Anfield on Thursday. The Reds extended their unbeaten streak to eight games but were held to a second draw against Daniel Farke’s side following the thrilling 3-3 match at Elland Road in early December. Unlike that high-scoring encounter, this game was disjointed and did little to reassure fans that Liverpool have overcome the struggles of the earlier season.

The key moment came in the first half when Ekitike appeared to be fouled in the box by Leeds defender Jaka Bijol. Despite being pulled, Ekitike stayed on his feet, and referee Chris Kavanagh waved away the appeals for a penalty. Speaking on Sky Sports’ Ref Watch on Friday, former official Dermot Gallagher said Liverpool should have been awarded a spot kick. He added that if Ekitike had gone to the ground, not only would a penalty likely have been given, but Bijol could have been sent off.

Former player Jay Bothroyd agreed, noting that Ekitike was “punished for honesty” by staying upright. Bothroyd suggested that in future situations, players might be advised to go down to ensure fouls are recognized, particularly when a potential goal-scoring opportunity is stopped.

The draw keeps Liverpool in the Premier League’s top four, with Chelsea also dropping points against Bournemouth. However, the Reds may feel they missed a chance to strengthen their position in the Champions League race, especially with a challenging run of fixtures ahead. They travel to Fulham on Sunday before facing league leaders Arsenal next week, who recently defeated Aston Villa 4-1 at the Emirates. Although Liverpool narrowly beat Arsenal at Anfield earlier this season, their form has since dipped significantly.