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Referee Howard Webb Addresses Controversial Decisions in Merseyside Derby

In a candid admission, Howard Webb, the chief of the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), acknowledged that a significant error occurred when James Tarkowski was not sent off during Everton’s loss to Liverpool in the recent Merseyside derby. Webb maintained, however, that the decision to allow Diogo Jota’s decisive goal was consistent with the rules, despite questions surrounding a potential offside infringement involving Luis Diaz.

The highly anticipated match, held in April at Anfield, was a focal point of debate among fans and analysts alike, particularly regarding Tarkowski’s first-half challenge on Alexis Mac Allister. Many argued that Tarkowski should have received a red card following a reckless tackle that endangered the safety of his opponent.

Referee’s Insight on Tarkowski’s Challenge

During the latest installment of Match Officials Mic’d Up, audio clips revealed the discussions among the referees regarding the incident. On-field referee Sam Barrott initially opted for a yellow card, stating that Tarkowski’s tackle constituted a follow-through motion, implying that it was a standard part of the game. “His foot has to go somewhere,” Barrott asserted.

VAR Paul Tierney also weighed in on the matter, observing that while there was contact, Tarkowski had primarily won the ball and that the on-field decision should be respected. However, Webb, reflecting on the incidents, argued that the force used by Tarkowski was excessive. “It’s a red card challenge, and it’s an error on the part of the match officials not to dismiss Tarkowski,” Webb stated. He emphasized the need for referees to prioritize player safety in every decision.

The Impact of the Merseyside Derby Context

When asked whether the intensity of the Merseyside derby should have influenced the decision-making process regarding Tarkowski, Webb maintained that the primary focus should always be on the safety of players. “The game has instructed us to protect players’ safety, and that will always be our guiding principle,” he confirmed.

Webb elaborated that the principle of considering the degree of recklessness in tackles must remain at the forefront of officiating, regardless of the match’s emotional stakes. “We take these lessons seriously and strive to minimize the chances of similar oversights in the future,” he added.

Jota’s Goal: Offside Concerns Explained

The controversy did not end with Tarkowski’s challenge, as questions arose regarding the validity of Diogo Jota’s winning goal, which came when Luis Diaz was in an offside position. The rules stipulate that a player is flagged offside only if they interfere with play or their opponent. The VAR assessed that Diaz’s position did not constitute interference, which is why the goal was ruled as valid.

Webb explained that Diaz did not engage with the play in a manner that violated offside rules. “Simply being in an offside position does not merit a foul unless you actively obstruct the play or challenge an opponent,” he clarified. As a result, the decision to allow the goal to stand was consistent with current regulations.

Despite these explanations, former players and commentators raised concerns about the potential implications of these rulings. Gary Neville suggested that the rule regarding offside should be revisited, particularly in situations that could disadvantage defenders attempting to anticipate plays.

In the end, Webb reinforced that the laws governing offside are designed to promote attacking play, even if they can appear disadvantageous to defenders in specific situations. “As outlined by the rules, the decision taken in this instance was the appropriate interpretation, even if it may seem harsh to Tarkowski and those supporting Everton,” he concluded.

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