Liverpool vs Burnley: Liverpool continues to get nightmare referee?

The Reds now know who will referee the Boxing Day match between Burnley and Liverpool at Turf Moor. With Simon Hooper overseeing VAR from behind the scenes, Paul Tierney serves as the referee. The last two games that Liverpool had these two officiate, both the players and the supporters were not happy.

Paul Tierney on the sidelines with Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp.

Earlier in the season, VAR disallowed a goal by Luis Diaz for offside during our away “loss” to Tottenham. Subsequent to the ruling, video analysis shown unequivocally that the officials erred in their decision and continued to claim they were unable to investigate the incident.

But it was clear from our most recent visit to Selhurst Park that the referees can trackback play since they awarded Crystal Palace a penalty for an incident that occurred more than two minutes before the official turned to examine the VAR screen.

Hooper has recently been in the news for his inability to use advantage during Manchester City’s 3-3 draw with Tottenham, which prevented Jack Grealish from getting through on goal. Howard Webb, the PGMOL chief, later acknowledged that it was an officiating error.

Nightmare referee and VAR duo confirmed for Burnley vs. Liverpool - Liverpool FC - This Is Anfield

Ref Nightmare

With a victory over Burnley on Boxing Day, Liverpool might take the lead atop the Premier League standings, at least until Arsenal can close the gap with a victory over West Ham on Boxing Day.

This season, Liverpool has been discussing the officiating choices. Jurgen Klopp expressed astonishment over the decision after Martin Odegaard’s handball penalty in their most recent match against Arsenal was disallowed. He demanded an explanation for why the penalty wasn’t given and why it wasn’t reviewed. This season, officiating errors have cost us nine points. Hopefully, it stays at nine to the campaign’s conclusion.

Simon Hooper officiating in Liverpool vs Tottenham earlier this season.

The storyline in Liverpool’s last games has changed from football to things beyond their control. They can only address this by making sure they follow the rules, win, and move on to the next game. The referees will act in their usual manner. In such cases, it’s best to assume the worst and guarantee a successful outcome.