Overview

• James Tarkowski's high and forceful tackle on Alexis Mac Allister in the 11th minute of the Merseyside derby resulted in only a yellow card, despite widespread calls for a red card.
• VAR reviewed the incident but upheld the referee's decision, classifying the challenge as reckless rather than serious foul play, which would have warranted a red card.
• Pundits, including Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher, criticized the decision, with Neville calling the tackle a 'potential leg-breaker' and questioning the excessive force used.
• Former referees Mike Dean and Keith Hackett argued that the challenge met the criteria for serious foul play and should have resulted in a red card following a monitor review.
• Liverpool manager Arne Slot expressed visible frustration on the touchline, while Alexis Mac Allister fortunately avoided injury despite the dangerous nature of the tackle.