Liverpool are thriving both in the Premier League and the Champions League, with their current form and Arne Slot’s tactical philosophies showing full force. Liverpool fans would be feeling quite fortunate, as Keith Hackett stated that Liverpool were lucky not to have had a penalty against them in their Bournemouth win.
Former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official Keith Hackett writing for Football Insider informed that Alexander-Arnold should have been penalized for handball inside his own box.
Arne Slot’s side stayed on track for the Premier League title with a 2-0 victory over Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium on Saturday (1 February).
However, there were a few moments that seemed to favor Liverpool, including the penalty appeal for Bournemouth that was not given. Additionally, some consider the foul on Gakpo, which led to a penalty for Liverpool, to be an officiating mistake. Rival fans are clearly frustrated by these decisions.
Liverpool and Alexander-Arnold escape penalty claim at Bournemouth
Liverpool’s next challenge is to overturn their 1-0 deficit against Tottenham in the second leg of their League Cup semi-final on Thursday (6 February).
They are currently in a strong position at the top of the Premier League, leading second-placed Arsenal by six points, with a game in hand. Liverpool were also fortunate when Alexis Mac Allister didn’t receive a second yellow card before being substituted by Slot.
Moments later, Dango Outtara’s cross from the right wing reached the far side of Liverpool’s penalty area and appeared to strike Alexander-Arnold’s arm.
Despite no penalty being awarded by referee Darren England and VAR not recommending a review, Hackett believes the visitors were lucky not to concede a spot kick.
Speaking to Football Insider about whether Liverpool should have conceded a penalty, the former referee said
“For me, I thought this was a penalty kick. He controlled the ball. The arm’s stuck out, he’s clearly made his body shape, his silhouette bigger, the ball strikes the area that’s green in terms of handball, that’s a penalty kick he got away with it. Where was VAR?”
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As of now, the future looks incredibly bright for Liverpool, with the Reds eyeing victory on all four fronts. Their relentless drive, combined with a bit of divine favor, seems to guide them towards greatness. If fortune truly smiles upon them, the esteemed glory they seek may soon be within reach.
