Man City vs Liverpool Referee Watch: Three Decisions Chris Kavanagh Got Wrong
Football Insider reviews three key referee decisions that were incorrect in Manchester City's 3-0 win over Liverpool.
Match Overview
Manchester City claimed an important 3-0 victory against Premier League rivals Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium. With Arsenal dropping points against Sunderland, both Man City and Liverpool had the chance to close the gap at the top of the table, but it was Pep Guardiola’s team who made the most of the opportunity.
Despite Erling Haaland missing a controversial penalty thanks to an excellent save from Giorgi Mamardashvili, the hosts dominated the first half, scoring twice. Haaland opened the scoring with a precise glancing header, followed by a powerful strike from Nico Gonzalez just before halftime.
Liverpool tried to respond, but this left them exposed to City’s pace and creativity. Jeremy Doku sealed the match with a stunning curled shot into the top corner, completing the 3-0 scoreline.
Refereeing Errors by Chris Kavanagh
Football Insider analyzed three critical decisions where referee Chris Kavanagh made mistakes during the match.
Jeremy Doku's Penalty Incident
Doku, who has been exceptional for Man City recently, troubled Liverpool’s Conor Bradley on the left wing. Although Bradley defended well, Doku’s speed was difficult to contain. One key moment was a penalty appeal when Doku went down inside the box following minimal contact from goalkeeper Mamardashvili.
“Referee Kavanagh initially dismissed the penalty claims despite the contact.”
Summary
Chris Kavanagh’s incorrect decisions, especially around the penalty incident involving Doku, influenced key moments in an already one-sided match where Manchester City effectively controlled the game.
Author's summary: The match highlighted how crucial refereeing decisions can impact game flow, with Chris Kavanagh’s errors failing to alter Man City’s dominant win over Liverpool.