Two judges argued that judging impact is inherently subjective, yet most agreed the VAR made a blatant mistake.
The KMI committee voted unanimously that Timber’s challenge did not merit a red card for denying a clear scoring chance. In my view, the panel overlooked a clear infringement.
Isak remained upright throughout the episode.
Post‑match, Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola told BBC Match of the Day: “There was an obvious shirt grab.”
He added, “Alex was directly ahead, poised to head the ball, but the pull stopped him.”
“If he hits the ground, a penalty is guaranteed. It should have been awarded, but the reality is different.”
“Next time managers must instruct Alex to fall, otherwise officials won’t rule it.”
“The solution is to dive; without that they won’t award anything.”
The KMI panel also identified a second VAR oversight on 31 October.
It concluded Ipswich deserved a penalty against Hull City after Nobel Mendy restrained Dara O’Shea at a corner.
Referee Peter Bankes missed the foul and VAR Neil Davies took no action.
The match stood at 0‑0 then Ipswich soon led, ending 2‑2. Will future panels tighten their standards?