Liverpool’s Slow Start and Controversial Southampton Goal
Liverpool struggled in the first half against Southampton, looking sluggish and lacking urgency. Conceding a goal to the relegation-threatened side summed up a poor opening 45 minutes, but ironically, the setback seemed to ignite the Reds into action.
Was Southampton’s Goal Offside?
During a mix-up between Alisson Becker and Virgil van Dijk, Mateus Fernandes intervened, getting a touch on the ball before the Liverpool goalkeeper. This allowed Will Smallbone to collect possession and slot the ball through Alisson’s legs into the net.
However, replays suggest that Fernandes’ touch may have nudged the ball forward to Smallbone, who appeared to be in an offside position at the time. If so, the goal should have been disallowed.
Turning Point for Liverpool
Liverpool’s slow start led to a strong halftime talk from Arne Slot, with Southampton’s goal acting as a wake-up call. Fortunately, a much-improved second-half performance saw the Reds turn the game around.
As Paul Merson humorously put it, Mohamed Salah’s “800th goal of the season” helped seal all three points.
Had the controversial goal stood in a match with a different outcome, frustration over the officiating might have been far greater. While it didn’t ultimately cost Liverpool, the potential VAR oversight remains a talking point in what could have been a much more contentious decision.
