Liverpool extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to a commanding nine points after securing a 2-0 victory over Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium on a day marked by significant VAR interventions and a controversial penalty decision. Mohamed Salah was the hero for Liverpool, scoring both goals, with the first coming from the penalty spot in a contentious moment that sparked debate among fans and pundits alike.
The match’s defining moment occurred in the first half when referee Darren England awarded Liverpool a penalty after a challenge from Bournemouth’s Lewis Cook on Cody Gakpo. The decision was met with controversy as many believed that Gakpo had tripped himself, rather than being fouled by Cook, but VAR did not recommend a review, and the referee’s decision stood. Salah confidently converted the spot-kick, marking his 20th league goal of the season, further solidifying his status as one of the Premier League’s top performers this season.
Bournemouth, coming into the match with newfound confidence following their recent victories over other top teams, began the game with a strong sense of urgency. They had several promising opportunities to open the scoring, including a strike from Marcus Tavernier that hit the post, followed by a rebound chance from Justin Kluivert that went wide. However, it was the disallowed goal that truly left the hosts frustrated. David Brooks thought he had equalized for Bournemouth, but VAR intervened to rule out the goal due to an offside in the build-up, denying them a much-needed equalizer.
In the second half, despite their persistent efforts, Bournemouth were unable to break down Liverpool’s defense. Alisson Becker was crucial to keeping his clean sheet, with several vital saves, including a fantastic stop to deny Antoine Semenyo and a block from Kluivert's close-range effort. The hosts continued to apply pressure, but Liverpool's defense held firm under the mounting intensity.
As the match neared its conclusion, Liverpool sealed the win with a clinical counter-attack that saw Salah curl a superb shot into the net to double his tally for the day. The goal ensured that Liverpool left the Vitality Stadium with all three points, maintaining their dominant position at the top of the Premier League. Despite their best efforts, Bournemouth couldn’t find a way back into the match, as they were left to reflect on missed opportunities and the VAR decisions that went against them during the game.