Liverpool 1-1 Burnley: Ex-PGMOL Chief Slams Officials Over Controversial Call

 

 

Liverpool, defending their Premier League title, dropped two crucial points after a 1-1 draw with Scott Parker’s Burnley at Anfield on Saturday. Former PGMOL chief and FIFA referee Keith Hackett has criticized referee Andy Madley for awarding a controversial penalty in Liverpool’s favour.

The draw marked Liverpool’s fourth consecutive league stalemate, something they haven’t experienced since 2008. Florian Wirtz put the Reds ahead in the 42nd minute with a powerful strike into the top corner, following Dominik Szoboszlai’s earlier missed penalty. Despite dominating several opportunities, Liverpool were pegged back in the 65th minute when Marcus Edwards’ skillful run and finish brought Burnley level.

Szoboszlai had the chance to open the scoring from the spot after Cody Gakpo appeared to be fouled by Florentino Luis, but his effort hit the crossbar. On review, Florentino’s contact with Gakpo was minimal, making Madley’s penalty decision highly debatable. Hackett told Football Insider: “What a poor penalty decision by Andy Madley… I struggle to see any offence that warrants a penalty.” Sky Sports pundits Michael Dawson and former referee Mike Dean agreed, calling the call soft and generous, though Dean conceded it was understandable why it was awarded on the field.

Liverpool remain in the top four, but Manchester United’s 2-0 win over Manchester City has reduced the gap to a single point, while Chelsea and Liam Rosenior’s side are just two points behind. The Reds’ poor result against one of the league’s lowest-ranked teams puts pressure on securing Champions League football.

Despite concerns, Liverpool owners FSG are not looking to replace Arne Slot mid-season. Xabi Alonso’s name has been floated as a potential future option, though it’s uncertain if he’d immediately return to management after leaving Real Madrid. Slot now faces a critical period, with upcoming matches against Marseille in the Champions League and Bournemouth in the league needing a return to form.