Fulham Contacts PGMOL for Explanation After Controversial Florian Wirtz Goal

Fulham have formally requested an explanation from PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited) following a contentious offside decision that allowed Liverpool's Florian Wirtz to score in their 2-2 Premier League draw at Craven Cottage.[3]

The match saw Fulham take an early lead through Harry Wilson, but Wirtz equalized in the first half, making it 1-1. The German international fired home after receiving a pass, but replays suggested he was marginally offside. VAR reviewed the incident and upheld the on-field decision, deeming Wirtz's foot within the league's five-centimeter tolerance margin for offside calls—less precise than the Champions League's millimeter accuracy.[1]

Wirtz's Own Admission Fuels Debate

Shockingly, Wirtz himself admitted post-match that he believed the goal should have been disallowed. Speaking to Sky Sports, the Liverpool star said: "I was certain it was offside, so I didn’t celebrate. I was pleased to score, but I would have preferred to secure three points."[1] He didn't celebrate, expecting VAR intervention, and praised his team's second-half intensity despite the draw.

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher echoed the confusion on punditry duty, questioning the decision: "Considering we have the penalty spot as a reference, I can hardly believe that was allowed."[1]

Fulham's Frustration and Late Drama

Fulham boss Marco Silva expressed bewilderment, insisting the goal was "clearly offside" and that his side deserved at least a point. Cody Gakpo later put Liverpool ahead, but Harrison Reed's stunning stoppage-time strike salvaged a draw for the Cottagers.[1]

The controversy has drawn sharp criticism, including from a former PGMOL chief who "exploded" at the call in a viral clip.[2] Fulham's PGMOL request seeks clarity on why the goal stood, highlighting ongoing VAR debates in the Premier League.

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