The Premier League have issued an official explanation following a controversial refereeing decision during Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Brighton at Anfield, where Diego Gomez avoided a red card for a dangerous challenge on Florian Wirtz.
The incident occurred just before half-time when Brighton midfielder Gomez caught Liverpool playmaker Wirtz with a raised foot, making contact with his stomach using his studs. Wirtz was left in visible pain, sparking strong reactions from Liverpool supporters and football pundits alike.
Referee Craig Pawson punished the challenge with a yellow card, a decision that was subsequently reviewed by VAR official Darren England. After examination, VAR opted not to overturn the on-field decision, ruling that the challenge did not meet the threshold for serious foul play.
In a statement released via the Premier League Match Centre, officials explained:
“The referee’s decision to issue a yellow card was checked and confirmed by VAR. The challenge was not deemed to involve excessive force and therefore did not constitute serious foul play.”
Despite the explanation, debate continued after the match. Former Premier League striker Chris Sutton criticised the decision while speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, describing the challenge as “really poor” and suggesting Gomez was fortunate not to be sent off.
Although Gomez avoided a red card, the caution proved costly. It was his fifth yellow card of the season, triggering a one-match suspension that will rule him out of Brighton’s upcoming fixture against Sunderland.
The controversial moment ultimately did not derail Liverpool’s performance. The hosts took the lead inside the opening minute through Hugo Ekitike, who capitalised on a fast start to put Brighton under immediate pressure.
