- A former PGMOL chief has criticised Michael Oliver’s mistake on Wednesday
- The referee’s error during the Merseyside derby led to Beto’s opener for Everton
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A former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official has criticised Michael Oliver’s refereeing during the controversial Merseyside Derby between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison Park.
The game on Wednesday descended into chaos which was featured in all headlines, after the players clashed in mass brawl that ended up in four red cards given after the final whistle.
It all started when James Tarkowsi scored a half-volley goal in stoppage-time, to get a 2-2 draw and a crucial point for Everton.
However, following the final whistle, Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones and his opponent Abdoulaye Doucoure were dismissed after the Mali international was spotted celebrating in front of the Reds’ supporters.
Captain Virgil van Dijk later said that referee Michael Oliver had lost control of the derby as he had sent two more people off the pitch.
Furthermore, ex-PGMOL chief Keith Hackett revealed that the game’s official was wrong to award a set-piece to Everton, which led to Beto’s opener in the 11th minute.
Former PGMOL chief has criticised Michael Oliver’s refereeing during Merseyside derby on Wednesday
According to the ex-FIFA official, there was no foul on Iliman Ndiaye leading to a set-piece from Everton
Jarrad Branthwaite took the set-piece and sent a pass towards Beto, who ultimately scored the opener after a quick run in front of Ibrahima Konate
He said: ‘Liverpool were on the wrong end of a poor decision by Michael Oliver to award Everton a free kick which led to their first goal.
‘There was no foul. Oliver got it wrong’
The set-piece followed after Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye went down to the ground after a tackle from Alexis Mac Allister in the middle of the pitch.
Jarrad Branthwaite took the opportunity to pass to Beto after he was not covered by Konate, leading to a shot under Alisson and his fourth Premier League goal this season.
Liverpool were quick to equalise through Mac Allister’s header after an assist from Mohamed Salah. They took the lead in the 73rd minute after a strike from the Egyptian, who is the Premier League top-goalscorer with 23 goals so far.
However, after the final whistle, the game was also remembered for its controversy when manager Arne Slot was given a red card following an angry handshake while exchanging words with Oliver.
The Dutchman will be absent for Liverpool’s game against the Wolves on Sunday, with Assistant First-team coach John Heitinga likely to take over temporarily.
