Ref Watch: Dermot Gallagher Analyzes Controversial Premier League Moments

Assessing Controversial Referee Decisions from the Weekend's Premier League Matches

Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher has reviewed the weekend's action, providing insights into several contentious moments that left both fans and players buzzing with debate.

Did Declan Rice Deserve a Red Card?

Incident: Declan Rice was shown a second yellow card for time-wasting after an incident involving Joel Veltman.

According to Gallagher, this decision aligns with the directives given to players regarding delaying the restart of play. "The players were told at the start of the season that if you delay the restart, you run the risk of a booking," Gallagher stated. He emphasized that Rice was aware of his actions and ultimately, referee Chris Kavanagh had no option but to issue the card. Stephen Warnock echoed this sentiment, stating that players should avoid giving referees such decisions, noting Rice's awareness of his actions. Sue Smith also added, "I don't think the referee liked doing it, but those are the rules."

Should Leicester's Goal Have Been Disallowed?

Incident: A goal from Jamie Vardy was ruled out after the ball incidentally struck referee David Coote in the buildup.

Gallagher explained that the laws dictate that if the ball hits the referee and goes to a teammate, play should continue. However, if it deflects to an opponent, the play is stopped. Gallagher stated, "He whistles early, the whistle is long gone when the goal is scored," indicating that the decision was justified. Warnock praised the decision, stating it was the right call as Villa players had already ceased playing.

Analyzing VAR Decisions in the Manchester United vs. Liverpool Match

Incident #1: Mo Salah, in an offside position, influenced a goal that was subsequently disallowed.

Gallagher confirmed this was the correct decision, clarifying that Salah's involvement in play rendered the goal offside. "Right call and a good spot," he noted.

Incident #2: Matthijs de Ligt's challenge on Luis Diaz resulted in a yellow card.

Gallagher supported the referee’s decision, reaffirming that it was indeed a yellow card based on the tackle's nature and viewing angle.

Incident #3: Noussair Mazraoui stepped on Cody Gakpo's foot, but no penalty was awarded.

Here, Gallagher indicated that the referee, who had the best view of the incident, made the call to let play continue, which VAR supported.

Was Will Hughes Lucky to Avoid a Second Yellow Card?

Incident: Will Hughes committed multiple fouls but remained on the pitch despite being already booked.

Gallagher pointed out that due to Hughes' rather panicked response during the late challenge on Cole Palmer, he managed to avoid collecting a second yellow. He commented, "I think he gets lucky, because the bench subbed him a minute later - that tells you everything."

Conclusion

The weekend's matches stirred significant debate over officiating decisions, highlighting the intricate challenges referees face in navigating the laws of the game. Gallagher, alongside Warnock and Smith, provided clarity on these decisions, stressing the importance of players being aware of the rules to avoid unnecessary bookings.

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