Howard Webb explains why Sesko’s goal stood against Liverpool
Howard Webb explains why Sesko’s goal stood against Liverpool Manchester United found themselves at the centre of VAR confusion recently when, during their 3-2 victory against Liverpool earlier this month, Benjamin Sesko scored a controversial goal. Sesko bundled home after Freddie Woodman deflected Bruno Fernandes ‘ headed pass – though he was not awarded the assist – onto his body, knocking the ball into the net without knowing much about it. A VAR review took place at the time, checking to see whether the ball touched Sesko’s hand on the way in, but, much to the frustration of Liverpool fans, the goal was eventually allowed to stand.
Now, however, an official explanation has been provided as to why the goal stood, given by the chief refereeing officer, Howard Webb. A key fixture The fierce local derby is always a key fixture for fans of both clubs, but on this occasion there was far more at stake than just bragging rights. The match was vital in the race for the Champions League places, with Kobbie Mainoo’s emphatic strike securing a return to the elite competition for United .
The Red Devils got off to the perfect start in the game, finding themselves 2-0 up early in the first half thanks to Matheus Cunha’s deflected strike and Sesko’s tap-in. Unfortunately, United did not come out for the second half with the same intensity they displayed in the first and soon found themselves drawing the game, thanks to goals from Dominik Szoboszlai and Cody Gakpo. However, Mainoo had the final word and celebrated his new contract with a match-winning strike, leaving Liverpool fans to seethe over Sesko’s goal that they felt certain should have been disallowed.
No clear evidence Webb appeared on the latest instalment of Match Officials Mic’d Up to discuss a series of controversial decisions made over the last few weeks. Among these was the decision to allow Sesko’s goal against Liverpool. “The clip speaks for itself.
I think it probably does hit the hand,” said Webb. “But of course, the VAR need that conclusivity. They need to be absolutely certain that it does.