Liverpool Denied Controversial Penalty in Emotional Season Opener
Liverpool’s Premier League opener against Bournemouth, already steeped in emotion following a moving tribute to the late Diogo Jota, was overshadowed in the 63rd minute by a major refereeing controversy.
With the score locked at 0-0, Trent Alexander-Arnold’s cross appeared to be deliberately blocked by the outstretched arm of Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, denying Mohamed Salah a clear chance on goal. Replays showed the ball striking Kerkez’s arm in what looked like an unnatural position, sparking furious protests from Liverpool players and fans. Despite this, referee Anthony Taylor waved play on, and VAR official Paul Tierney upheld the decision, ruling the contact accidental.
The call drew swift backlash online, with supporters branding it “a robbery in plain sight” and pundit Jamie Carragher remarking, “I’ve seen softer handballs given. VAR’s meant to fix these, not ignore them.” Many argued that under the Premier League’s handball rules, the incident warranted both a penalty and a potential red card for denying a goal-scoring opportunity.
Manager Arne Slot was diplomatic, saying, “It’s a tough one to take… we’ll keep playing for Diogo and the fans.” Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola claimed the contact was unintentional, though footage appeared to show Kerkez moving his arm toward the ball.
The controversy reignited criticism of VAR’s consistency, with fans pointing to previous questionable calls against Liverpool last season.
On the pitch, Liverpool dominated possession but were held at bay by Bournemouth’s disciplined defense and goalkeeper Neto’s key saves. Dominic Solanke came close for the visitors on the counter.
Earlier, Anfield had honored Jota with a minute’s silence, a “Jota 20” mosaic, and a 20th-minute standing ovation for his family, as players wore black armbands and kits bearing a “Forever 20” emblem.
With the match still goalless, the disputed decision loomed large, threatening to define an emotionally charged evening at Anfield
