Liverpool vs Southampton: What Saints can take away from loss

VAR was not able to save Southampton’s skin

Southampton fans would be the first to admit that the introduction of VAR has been beneficial in terms of rescuing or preserving points this season. Yet with referee Kevin Friend seemingly cautious about utilising the technology available, Saints were unable to benefit from two big moments.

The first was a backpass from left back Robertson which was calmly picked up by Allison in the Liverpool goal. The referee either failed to notice it or believed it had taken a touch off of a Southampton player. Either way, Saints did not get an opportunity to profit from an indirect free kick from just a few yards out.

The second was what appeared to be a clear penalty after Fabinho caught Ings midway through a marauding run into the box. Liverpool fans might feel Ings was already going to ground but in view of the technology to hand, it was frustrating for Ralph Hasenhuttl that Friend chose not to review the matter.

To rub compound matters further, Liverpool immediately broke and scored on the counter down the other end. In fairness, there was also a moment in the first half where Firmino claimed he was similarly fouled in the box.

Ultimately, the encounter proved to be another example of VAR not being used appropriately, despite the fact that the referees having pitch side monitors. If this continues, it will become increasingly hard to encourage fans to buy into VAR as the lack of consistency alienates fans.