Fulham seek clarification after VAR overturns offside call on Wirtz goal

Silva challenges decision that changed the course of the match

Fulham manager Marco Silva has formally contacted the Professional Game Match Officials Limited to question the decision that allowed Florian Wirtz’s controversial goal to stand during his side’s Premier League draw with Liverpool. The incident has reignited debate over the consistency and transparency of VAR decisions, particularly in tight offside calls that rely on marginal interpretations.

The goal, scored in the 57th minute, was initially ruled out after the assistant referee raised the flag for offside. However, following a review by the video assistant referee, the decision was overturned and the goal was awarded, levelling the score at 1-1. Silva later described the decision as a clear offside and said Fulham were seeking an explanation for how the conclusion was reached.

The moment that sparked controversy

The disputed goal came at a pivotal point in the match. Liverpool were trailing when Florian Wirtz found the net, only for celebrations to be halted by the offside flag. Television replays appeared to show Wirtz in an advanced position when the ball was played, leading many viewers to expect the on field decision to be upheld.

Instead, after a VAR review, the goal was given. No detailed explanation was provided in real time beyond confirmation that the check was complete. The lack of clarity left Fulham players and staff visibly frustrated, particularly as the decision shifted momentum in a closely fought contest.

Fulham’s response to the officials

After the match, Silva confirmed that the club had contacted Professional Game Match Officials Limited to request clarification. While he stopped short of accusing officials of bias, he was clear in his assessment of the incident. In his view, the available images showed Wirtz in an offside position, making the decision difficult to understand.

Silva emphasised that Fulham were not seeking to change the result, but wanted greater transparency. He argued that consistent explanations are essential if clubs and supporters are to maintain confidence in the system. Without that, frustration around VAR decisions is likely to continue growing.

Impact on a dramatic Premier League clash

The match ultimately finished 2-2, with both teams scoring during stoppage time in a dramatic finale. While the late goals ensured a share of the points, the controversy surrounding Wirtz’s equaliser remained the dominant talking point. Fulham felt the decision altered the flow of the game, forcing them to respond to a setback they believed should not have happened.

Liverpool, for their part, benefited from the ruling but were unable to turn the momentum fully in their favour. The draw left both sides reflecting on what might have been, though the focus afterward was firmly on officiating rather than football.

VAR and the ongoing offside debate

The incident highlights persistent concerns about how offside decisions are made under VAR. While the technology was introduced to eliminate clear errors, critics argue that it has instead created new controversies, especially when decisions hinge on fine margins or unclear camera angles.

Managers across the league have repeatedly called for greater consistency and clearer communication. Some have suggested semi automated offside systems or more detailed post match explanations as potential solutions. Until changes are made, disputes like Fulham’s are likely to remain common.

What happens next

PGMOL typically reviews contentious decisions internally and may issue guidance or clarification, though such explanations are rarely detailed publicly. For Fulham, the response will be watched closely as an indicator of whether concerns raised by clubs lead to tangible improvements.

As the Premier League continues to balance technology with the human element of officiating, moments like this underline the challenge. For now, Silva’s call for clarity reflects a broader demand within the game, not just for correct decisions, but for trust in how those decisions are reached.