Do you believe Liverpool was denied a penalty against Arsenal?
Arsenal secured a 1-0 victory over Liverpool at Anfield, ending their 14-year wait for a win at the ground. The result was an important achievement for Mikel Arteta’s side, who had struggled to secure victories there during that period.
The previous time the Gunners won at Anfield was in 2012, when Arteta was still a player under Arsène Wenger. However, he had never managed to guide Arsenal to victory at the stadium until yesterday, making this result particularly significant for the Spaniard.
An early goal from Kai Havertz proved decisive, with the German once again demonstrating his ability to deliver in important moments. His contribution gave Arsenal the advantage they needed to secure all three points.
Liverpool dominated large periods of the contest, struck the post and created opportunities to score. However, Arsenal defended resolutely and managed to protect their lead, strengthening their position at the top of the Premier League table.
Liverpool left frustrated by penalty decision
Despite Arsenal’s victory, there was considerable controversy surrounding a potential penalty that Liverpool believed should have been awarded. Footage from the match appeared to show Jurrien Timber pulling Alexander Isak’s shirt as the Swedish striker attempted to reach a header inside the penalty area.
Isak remained on his feet following the contact, and VAR did not intervene. The decision angered Liverpool’s players, supporters and manager, who felt their side had been denied an important opportunity to equalise.
Iraola questions officials over Isak incident
Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola was particularly unhappy with the decision and insisted that the contact on Isak should have resulted in a penalty. Speaking after the match, he explained his frustration, as reported by the Daily Mail:
‘There are two situations and they are a little bit related. The Isak one is a clear penalty.
‘He’s gonna head the ball in front of the goal, and they grab him where everyone sees the shirt. You don’t need a lot, just to avoid Alex, because the ball just goes in front of him, and I don’t see the reason why, probably because he doesn’t dive or he doesn’t go to the floor. It shouldn’t be a reason not to concede a penalty.’
The incident added further controversy to an important encounter, although Arsenal ultimately held on to claim a historic victory at Anfield.
