The incident unfolded when James Tarkowski lunged into a forceful challenge on Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister near the edge of Everton’s penalty area.
Although Tarkowski made initial contact with the ball, his follow-through saw his studs rake high up Mac Allister’s left calf, leaving the Argentine midfielder in visible pain. The challenge immediately sparked outrage among players, fans, and pundits.
Referee Samuel Barrott, officiating his first Merseyside derby, opted to show only a yellow card. VAR official Paul Tierney reviewed the decision but upheld it, a move that left many stunned.
The Premier League later released a statement on X, explaining: “The referee’s decision to issue a yellow card for a reckless foul by Tarkowski was reviewed by VAR, with the follow-through deemed reckless rather than serious foul play.” However, this explanation did little to quiet the backlash.
Former referee Mike Dean, speaking on *Sky Sports*, was astonished that Tarkowski remained on the pitch. “That’s a red card all day long,” he insisted, citing the speed and force of the challenge.
Other pundits echoed the criticism. Jamie Carragher condemned the tackle as “shocking” and an obvious refereeing error, while Gary Neville called it a “potential leg-breaker,” pointing to Tarkowski’s dangerous follow-through.
Even former Everton striker Duncan Ferguson acknowledged the severity of the foul, stating, “That’s a straight red—he could have broken his leg.”
Liverpool fans took to X, branding the decision “disgraceful” and the challenge itself “cowardly.” Fortunately, Mac Allister was able to continue after receiving treatment.
The controversy has reignited discussions about VAR’s inconsistent intervention in dangerous play situations. For Liverpool, who were leading the league but frustrated by a scoreless first half, the incident added to growing frustrations over refereeing standards.
Everton, meanwhile, benefited from the decision, nearly taking advantage when Beto struck the post later in the game.
As tensions continue to simmer, this moment will likely be remembered as a key flashpoint in an already fierce rivalry, underscoring the fine line between aggressive play and reckless endangerment in football.
