Manchester United fans expressed frustration at Diogo Dalot’s red card during the intense Premier League clash, highlighting an apparent lack of consistency in refereeing decisions after Darwin Nunez avoided a similar punishment.
In the final moments of the goalless draw, Dalot objected to a throw-in decision, receiving a yellow card from referee Michael Oliver for his animated reaction involving Mohamed Salah. Moments later, he earned a second yellow for further dissent, resulting in his dismissal and United playing with ten men.
However, United supporters were puzzled by Nunez escaping further consequences despite his own act of dissent. Although Nunez was initially booked for an incident with Jonny Evans, he avoided a second yellow despite kicking the ball away and sarcastically applauding match officials.
The inconsistent refereeing decisions left United fans discontented, highlighting the contrast between Dalot’s dismissal and Nunez’s avoidance of additional punishment despite his actions.
Howard Webb, PGMOL chief, had previously stressed stricter measures against dissent, but there seemed to be fluctuations in enforcing these standards throughout the season, prompting calls for consistent officiating.
Despite securing a draw at Anfield, preventing Liverpool from winning at home for the first time this season, Manchester United’s point didn’t propel them to the top of the Premier League. Arsenal had leapfrogged ahead of them earlier in the day. The draw offered some respite to Erik ten Hag following a turbulent week for United, marked by a 3-0 home defeat against Bournemouth and their European exit.
However, United’s recent lack of attacking effectiveness remains a concern, given their scoring record in just one of their last five games.