𝗗𝗘𝗕𝗔𝗧𝗘: Is this red or yellow?

𝗗𝗘𝗕𝗔𝗧𝗘: Is this red or yellow?

In a high-stakes Premier League clash, Anthony Gordon was initially shown a yellow card for a sliding challenge on Virgil van Dijk. However, after a VAR review, referee Simon Hooper upgraded the decision to a straight red, citing the challenge as serious foul play—given its speed, studs-down contact, and clear impact to Van Dijk’s calf.

The Premier League’s Match Centre further clarified the decision:

“After VAR review, the referee overturned his on-field decision of a yellow card … the challenge is with speed and makes clear contact on the Liverpool number 4’s calf. My final decision is red card to Newcastle United number 10.”

Reasoning Behind the Red

• VAR and officiating experts deemed the challenge reckless and dangerous enough to warrant a red. Former referee Mark Halsey supported the red card, stating that Gordon “has endangered Van Dijk’s safety with excessive force” and met the criteria under Law 12: serious foul play.

• Newcastle legend Alan Shearer was unambiguous: it was a red card “all day.”

• Manager Eddie Howe called it deserved, albeit unfortunate, while pundit Troy Deeney noted Van Dijk’s reaction may have influenced officials but also acknowledged that the rules were applied correctly.

Fan Perspectives

Some fans on Reddit echoed that it was tough to argue against the red:

“Hard to argue against a straight red there, his studs have taken the sock right down.”
“Stupid red card as well… he’s lost his temper and almost certainly the match for his club.”