Everton manager David Moyes expressed frustration with referee Sam Barrott following Liverpool’s 1-0 victory, believing Luis Diaz was “clearly” offside before the winning goal.
Diaz was initially in an offside position during the buildup to Diogo Jota’s strike at Anfield but only became active once he was onside. The Colombian then flicked the ball into Jota’s path, allowing the Portuguese forward to create space and fire in the decisive goal.
Though not the most contentious moment of the match, Moyes spent much of his post-match press conference criticizing what he saw as an obvious decision.
“He’s offside. I haven’t received an explanation, but I’ve made it clear that I’m disappointed,” Moyes told reporters.
“It’s a simple decision because our players were holding the 18-yard line, and Diaz came from behind, affecting Tarkowski’s position. It was obvious.
“I’m really surprised it wasn’t given—or maybe I’m not surprised.”
Moyes further commented: “Not many managers expect to get a lot of decisions at Anfield. That’s just my view. And tonight, this was an easy one.
“The linesman was right there—it was a straightforward offside call. Very, very simple.
“I wasn’t particularly impressed with the officials tonight. Some flags went up too early, some too late. I don’t think they managed the game well.
A more glaring controversy was the failure of referee Barrott and VAR official Paul Tierney to penalize James Tarkowski’s dangerous challenge on Alexis Mac Allister early in the game.
Many believe Tarkowski should have been sent off, with Tierney expected to recommend a review. Even Moyes acknowledged his defender might have been fortunate to stay on the pitch.
“At the time, I thought it was a fantastic tackle for a derby—everyone wants that intensity, and then when it happens, you call for a red card,” Moyes remarked.
“You have to be careful what you wish for.
“Initially, I thought it was a great challenge. But after reviewing it, I think we might have been lucky he wasn’t sent off.
“It looked high, but it depends on the football era you’re used to watching. At the time, it seemed like a brilliant tackle—perhaps it was—but the follow-through made it look worse.”