Newcastle United’s right-back, Kieran Trippier, escaped punishment after a controversial handball incident during the first half of the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool — and now EFL communications have explained why no penalty was awarded.
Around the 40th minute, with the score still 0-0, Liverpool’s Luis Diaz and Trippier both challenged for a high ball near the Newcastle box. As the ball dropped, Trippier appeared to handle it, sparking calls for a penalty from Liverpool players and fans.
However, after a VAR review, officials decided not to award a spot-kick. According to a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), EFL clarified that VAR confirmed Trippier’s arm was in a natural position for balance and that there was no deliberate attempt to handle the ball — so play continued.
Interestingly, at halftime, former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher, who was part of the commentary team, agreed with the referee’s decision, saying the handball wasn’t “clear and obvious.”
Shortly after the incident, Newcastle capitalized on their momentum. Dan Burn, left unmarked and towering over Alexis Mac Allister, headed home the opening goal — a direct consequence of Liverpool’s poor defensive setup.
In the second half, Alexander Isak added a second for Newcastle in the 53rd minute, smashing a close-range volley past Liverpool’s goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, sealing a dominant lead.