Linesman elbows Liverpool’s Robertson for a stir
Need to talk at half-time between Liverpool players and linesman Constantine Hatzidakis
Quelle: pa/ZUMAPRESS.com/Andrew Yates
In a spectacular game, Liverpool bounce back from a two-goal deficit against Arsenal. Jürgen Klopp’s team misses the best chance of victory. Linesman Constantine Hatzidakis stirs up the debate by meeting Andrew Robertson.
Jürgen Klopp and Liverpool FC have made the English football championship a little more exciting again. The Reds came in a spectacular Premier League game on Sunday despite being 2-0 down to a 2-2 (1-2) against leaders Arsenal. The Gunners now have 73 points after 30 games, six more than defending champions Manchester City. However, the team coached by Pep Guardiola still has a catch-up game. Liverpool remains in midfield after a strong performance in eighth.
Coach Mikel Arteta’s guests appeared like a championship contender right from the start on the otherwise feared Anfield Road. Arsenal only needed eight minutes to take the lead: Gabriel Martinelli completed a fine individual performance to make it 1-0. The Klopp-Elf came into play better, but was countered by the leaders of the table. After a pass from Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus easily headed in against an overwhelmed Liverpool defense to make it 2-0 (28th minute).
However, the second goal woke Liverpool up. The guests withdrew, the 2019 Champions League winner took control. Shortly before the break, Mohamed Salah deservedly reduced the deficit to 1:2 (42nd) and completed a furious first half.
Linesman Constantine Hatzidakis caused a stir with a scene at half-time. On the way to head referee Paul Tierney, Liverpool’s Andrew Robertson got too close. Hatzidakis then extended his elbow and hit the defender in the neck. A video of the action immediately circulated on social media. Robertson saw a yellow card during the break.
investigation into the incident announced
“I’ve never seen an official elbow a player,” said ex-player Gary Neville, who was a Sky Sports co-commentator. “I think he’s going to be in a lot of trouble after this game.” PGMOL, the refereeing authority in England, announced an investigation into the incident. Expert Roy Keane, however, also criticized Robertson. “I’ve watched him many times. He’s a big baby. Just keep going and focus on your defensive work. But he grabs the linesman first.”
Things continued quickly after the change of sides. Salah missed the great opportunity to equalize shortly after the change of sides. The Egyptian shot a penalty kick next to keeper Aaron Ramsdale’s goal (54′).
Mohamed Salah’s penalty went wide of the target
Which: REUTERS
Liverpool pushed for the equalizer, Arsenal countered dangerously. Andrew Robertson cleared at the last second before Bukayo Saka was ready to score (74′). On the other side Darwin Nunez failed free standing against Ramsdale (81st). Then Roberto Firmino headed in the well-deserved 2-2 in the 87th minute after a strong pass from Trent Alexander-Arnold. In injury time, Ramsdale saved the draw against Salah (90+5) and Ibrahima Konaté (90+6).