In a thrilling Premier League clash that had fans on the edge of their seats, Liverpool were held to a dramatic 2-2 draw by Fulham, with former Reds defender **Jamie Carragher openly questioning a pivotal VAR decision that ruled Florian Wirtz’s goal legitimate.
The match at Craven Cottage was packed with late twists: Fulham took the lead early through Harry Wilson, only for Wirtz to level the score just before the hour mark. However, it was the manner in which that equaliser was awarded that sparked heated debate.
🟥 The VAR Debate: What Carragher Said
Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher didn’t hold back, suggesting the technology may have gotten the call wrong. He argued that Wirtz appeared offside when the pass was played, and was baffled that the goal ended up standing even after a lengthy VAR review.
“I know sometimes the angles can fool you, but the fact we’ve got the penalty spot to look at — I just can’t believe that’s been given,” Carragher commented, questioning the clarity and reliability of the new semi-automated system used to judge marginal offsides.
🤖 Why the Goal Stood
Although the on-field call initially went against Liverpool, VAR overturned it after reviewing the incident using semi-automated offside technology. The Premier League’s system includes a small tolerance margin of up to five centimetres, meaning that if the attacker’s position falls within that margin, the goal can be awarded even if it looks offside in replays.
Wirtz himself admitted he hadn’t celebrated enthusiastically because he was convinced he’d been flagged offside, showing just how uncertain even players can be about these close calls.
⏱ Late Drama Seals Draw
Following Wirtz’s controversial leveller, Liverpool looked set to snatch all three points when Cody Gakpo scored in stoppage time — only for Fulham to hit back almost immediately. Harrison Reed unleashed a stunning 30-yard strike in the 97th minute, earning his side a dramatic draw and leaving both sets of supporters stunned.
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