The recent Manchester derby, held on October 29, 2023, ended with Manchester United defeating Manchester City 2-0. However, the match was overshadowed by a controversial incident involving United defender Diogo Dalot and City attacker Jérémy Doku. Just ten minutes into the game, Dalot made a late challenge on Doku, which raised questions about the appropriateness of the referee’s decision to issue only a yellow card.
Referee Anthony Taylor initially ruled the challenge as reckless, awarding Dalot a yellow card. The decision was reviewed by VAR official Craig Pawson, who confirmed the on-field ruling. The VAR review focused on the nature of the contact, with the footage indicating that it was glancing rather than forceful.
The incident has ignited a debate among fans and analysts alike. Many argue that the challenge was dangerous due to its timing and execution. Dalot’s late tackle caught Doku high on the knee, an area often considered vulnerable for injury. While Taylor described the challenge as reckless, the assessment may have been influenced by the early stage of the match, which is often a factor in officiating decisions.
In examining the VAR process, it is essential to understand the protocols in place that guided Pawson’s decision-making. The live communication between Taylor and Pawson emphasized the necessity of assessing whether the contact was dangerous. Despite the potential for injury, Pawson felt that the evidence from the replays did not warrant a recommendation for an on-field review for a red card.
Critics of the decision have pointed out that the nature of the challenge, high and unnecessary, could have endangered Doku’s safety. The consensus among some observers is that a red card could have been a more fitting punishment for Dalot. The challenge’s recklessness and the subsequent impact on the game’s flow have made this incident a focal point of discussion in the aftermath of the derby.
As the Premier League season progresses, the role of VAR continues to be scrutinized. This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing debates surrounding officiating and the interpretation of the Laws of the Game. The question remains whether the current protocols adequately address the safety of players and the integrity of the match.
In conclusion, the challenge by Dalot will likely be revisited throughout the season as teams and fans alike reflect on the standards of officiating in the Premier League. The incident highlights the complexities of decision-making in high-pressure situations, particularly in crucial matches such as the Manchester derby.
