Controversial Decision: Ex-Premier League Referee Dermot Gallagher Criticizes Unjust Red Card on Alexis Mac Allister

Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher dissects the flashpoints from the weekend's Premier League action - and a bizarre incident involving a Portsmouth fan!

'Mac Allister's boot is not high'

INCIDENT: Alexis Mac Allister receives a straight red card after a challenge on Ryan Christie during Liverpool's victory over Bournemouth.

DERMOT SAYS: "In my opinion, it's not deserving of a red card. The issue arises from the referee perceiving it as a high tackle, yet this outcome is solely due to the presence of both players involved.

The boot connects with his ankle. If he had his foot on the ground and the impact occurred in the same spot, it does not qualify as a high tackle. Both individuals have lifted their feet off the ground, so I don't see it as a red card. Liverpool would need to demonstrate to the panel that the referee made a clear and unmistakable mistake in order to succeed in their appeal.

Stephen Warnock's Opinion on the Need for Clarity and Accuracy in Decision-making

'Proximity saved Spurs' Romero from handball'

INCIDENT: In Man Utd's 2-0 defeat at Spurs, Alejandro Garnacho's shot strikes Cristian Romero's outstretched arm. Despite a VAR check, no penalty is given. Following the match, Man Utd captain Bruno Fernandes demands an apology from the PGMOL.

DERMOT SAYS: "There is absolutely no chance of him receiving an apology. It is believed that the incident was very challenging to judge, especially considering our previous discussions on handball."

Drilling further into the matter exacerbates the issues at hand. One of these issues involves the position of the arm, specifically whether it is positioned as expected or above the shoulder. Another point worth considering is whether the ball approached too quickly. All these queries were taken into account before making the decision.

The mistake made by Lewis Dunk against Luton last week is widely recognized. In this case, the decision was made based on the closeness of the incident.

We're Sue Smith: "It's frustrating for Man Utd to witness others receiving bookings. It's disheartening when they're given so frequently, especially when it's in such a close situation - which is considered a natural position?"

'Fernandes upset Oliver for yellow'

Dermot points out that the player's behavior is not as polite as one would expect. The referee's reaction suggests that the player said something that displeased him.

While players are allowed to communicate with the referee, it seems that whatever was said did not sit well with Michael Oliver.

'Walsh makes movement towards ball'

DERMOT SAYS: "Their policy is extremely strict when it comes to any contact between the ball and a hand outside the body, and in this case, Walsh does display a clear movement towards the ball.

"You always feel once it goes to the VAR it's going to be given."

We' Sue Smith: "I just don't think it's clear and obvious if it takes so long."

'Fan ref did great!'

INCIDENT: Portsmouth fan Julian Browning was brought in as a back-up fourth official after one of the refereeing team was injured in their 0-0 draw with Cheltenham.

However, when the assistant referee was also compelled to leave the field, he took charge of the flag and proceeded to assist with the touchline duties until the conclusion of the match!

Dermot expresses, "These are truly remarkable moments. Just think of the predicament if he had sustained an injury! Who would have been called upon to replace him then?"

He performed exceptionally well, and he holds the distinction of being the only individual on Ref Watch to have received your praise throughout its entire history! Watch Premier League matches on We with NOW at the low price of £26 per month for a duration of 12 months. You can cancel anytime.