Arne Slots reacts after PGMOL admit James Tarkowski should have been sent off for horror challenge on Liverpool's Alexis Mac Allister

Liverpool secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over Everton at Anfield, with Diogo Jota’s goal proving decisive. However, the match was marred by a controversial moment in the first half when Everton captain Tarkowski escaped a red card for a reckless challenge on Mac Allister.

The Everton defender initially won the ball with his sliding challenge but followed through dangerously, catching the Argentine midfielder high on the leg. Referee Sam Barrott issued a yellow card, and after a VAR review, the decision stood, as officials determined the challenge was "reckless" but not a clear and obvious error.

Following a review of the incident, Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) has acknowledged that Tarkowski should have been sent off. The organization determined that the challenge met the criteria for serious foul play, which should have resulted in a VAR intervention to upgrade the yellow card to a red.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot accepted the PGMOL’s admission, emphasizing that mistakes happen in football.

"It is good that if they made a mistake, they acknowledged it," he told reporterse. "Mistakes are made in a football match – by us, by me, by referees."

With the Merseyside derby now behind them, Liverpool will turn their attention to their upcoming Premier League fixture against Fulham on April 6. The Reds remain at the top of the table, holding a 12-point lead over their nearest challengers and will be eager to maintain their momentum.