‘Sadly…’ – Ex-PGMOL chief hits out at Howard Webb’s explanation of controversial Man City vs Liverpool decision
Howard Webb is completely wrong in his explanation of why Virgil van Dijk’s header deserved to be disallowed against Liverpool.
That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that Liverpool’s equaliser against Man City should have stood on Sunday, 9 November.
Giorgi Mamardashvili was controversially punished for bringing Jeremy Doku down in the penalty area, and while Erling Haaland missed from the spot, he was on hand to make up for his errors minutes later.
Van Dijk’s equaliser could have completely changed the game for the Reds, but after re-analysing the incident, with Andy Robertson in an offside position, Howard Webb appeared to support the decision.
Keith Hackett fundamentally disagrees with PGMOL boss’ explanation
The decision was heavily debated, with many suggesting that Robertson never interfered with play, and speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Hackett is fully against the PGMOL boss’ explanation.
“We have seen an explanation from the PGMOL in regards to the goal that was ruled out for offside following that Virgil van Dijk header, and Robertson being judged as offside,” he said.
“I have listened to Howard Webb‘s explanation, and there’s no question that there is always subjectivity around this type of offence. Robertson was in an offside position. However, the goalkeeper’s sight was unobstructed.
“The action of Robertson bending down did not impact the goalkeeper’s ability to make a save. Therefore, in my opinion, along with many others, the goal should have been allowed.
“Liverpool had every right to ask for an explanation from Howard Webb. Sadly, his explanation at this time, I disagree with. I acknowledge the subjectivity, but Robertson did not impact on the goalkeeper.”
Jamie Carragher has already shown why Howard Webb is wrong
Analysing the incident in detail following the final whistle, Jamie Carragher walked through each step of the disallowed goal, and his explanation was far more detailed than Webb’s.
He showed proof that Gianluigi Donnarumma was already on his way to the opposite corner, so when Van Dijk aimed for the opposite corner, the goalkeeper’s reaction was extremely delayed.
It took the Italy international until the ball was already above Robertson’s head before Donnarumma planted his foot and pushed in the correct direction, meaning that the ducking motion could have played no part whatsoever.
It has been baffling to see Webb remain strong on his officials’ standpoint on the controversial incident while the rest of the footballing world hits out at the decision. But it appears nothing will change anytime soon.