Liverpool and Manchester United played to a goalless draw on Sunday, sparking two significant post-match discussions centered around refereeing choices.
Late in the game, Diogo Dalot received his marching orders for two instances of dissent. United fans were left questioning why Darwin Nunez wasn’t similarly dismissed despite a comparable situation. The Uruguayan forward collided with Jonny Evans earlier and earned a booking for booting the ball away. His sarcastic applause towards the linesman after the incident puzzled many, raising queries about why he avoided a potential second yellow card, which could have had a more pronounced impact on the match compared to Dalot’s dismissals.
Discussing the situation on Sky Sports News, former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher acknowledged the complexity of such decisions. “It’s so, so difficult because it is not an exact science,” Gallagher remarked.
For Manchester United supporters, this explanation likely exacerbated their frustration, as it seemed the officials’ judgment at that moment heavily influenced the outcome.
"I don't think it looks good" 💬
"I think in the current climate, he's got no choice" 💬
Dermot Gallagher reacts to Diogo Dalot's sending off against Liverpool after being shown two quick yellow cards 🟨🟨 pic.twitter.com/3OjEBi4qRc
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 18, 2023
Dermot Gallagher gives his thoughts on Darwin Núñez's yellow card and whether he could have received more than one booking 🔍 pic.twitter.com/24s1ftgs84
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 18, 2023