VIDEO: James Tarkowksi apologises to Alexis Mac Allister after escaping red card for shocking challenge on Liverpool star

The incident occurred in the first half at Anfield, when Tarkowski, in an attempt to clear the ball, followed through with his challenge and caught Mac Allister high on his left leg. Despite the severity of the contact, referee Sam Barrott opted to show only a yellow card. VAR official Paul Tierney reviewed the incident but chose not to intervene, allowing the on-field decision to stand.

Following the final whistle, Tarkowski was seen engaged in conversation with Mac Allister, seemingly acknowledging that his challenge had been excessive. The Everton defender appeared to apologize, and Mac Allister accepted the gesture in good spirits, responding with a smile. The exchange ended on a positive note, with the Liverpool midfielder reassuring Tarkowski, stating, “It’s OK”, before the two players went their separate ways.

After the match, the Premier League provided an official explanation for the decision not to escalate the punishment. In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), they clarified: "The referee’s call of yellow card for a reckless foul by Tarkowski was checked by the VAR, with contact on the follow through after Tarkowski had played the ball deemed to be reckless."

Despite the contentious decision, Liverpool secured an important victory to retain their 12-point lead over second-place Arsenal in the Premier League table. They will now turn their attention to their upcoming fixture against Fulham on April 6, as they continue their pursuit of domestic glory.