The Professional Game Encounter Officials Limited (PGMOL) has confirmed that Liverpool midfielder Fabinho should have been sent off during Sunday’s FA Cup match for a tackle on Brighton striker Evan Ferguson. The tackle, which seemed a reckless challenge, earned Fabinho a yellow card, which was not overturned by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), but in hindsight warranted VAR’s intervention.
As part of a push for greater transparency inside PGMOL, the organisation admitted that there was enough evidence to hand out a red card for the reckless challenge. According to BBC, the PGMOL ‘has privately let it be known there was enough evidence to warrant a red card.’
Although the foul was not the worst, it involved complete contact from behind with the studs above the ankle. According to the rules, this sort of challenge is supposed to result in a red card, and officials at Stockley Park should have intervened and advised the referee to change his decision.
After the tackle, Evan Ferguson was helped off the pitch and was spotted leaving the Amex Stadium on crutches. His injury’s severity is yet unknown. Nevertheless, PGMOL’s newest admission emphasizes the significance of openness and accuracy in football. This is a part of their initiative to also ensure consistency in decision-making across all competitions.
Fabinho has had a nightmare of a season, and this late challenge summed up his season. Many Liverpool fans were shocked by the decision that went in his favour.
Brighton went on to win the game in the dying moments and progress in the FA Cup to face Stoke City in the fifth domestic cup round.