Fulham vs Liverpool Ref Watch: Three Decisions Craig Pawson and the VAR Got Wrong

In a highly controversial Fulham vs Liverpool Premier League match on January 4, 2026, at Craven Cottage, referee Craig Pawson and VAR official Andy Madley faced intense scrutiny for three key decisions that allegedly cost Liverpool dearly. The game, refereed by Pawson with Madley on VAR, ended in frustration for the Reds, fueling debates over officiating biases.[3][4]

Decision 1: Missed Penalty for Handball on Fulham Defender

The first flashpoint came in the 28th minute when Liverpool's Cody Gakpo drove into the box, and a Fulham defender appeared to handle the ball on the line. Replays showed clear contact, but Pawson waved play on, and VAR Madley failed to intervene. Critics argue this was a stonewall penalty, especially given Pawson's history of awarding Liverpool pens in 2022— their last VAR foul penalties, both late in games.[2][5] Liverpool's dismal record—141 games without a VAR foul penalty—highlights ongoing disparities.[2]

Decision 2: Incorrect Red Card to Liverpool's Milos Kerkez

Just before halftime, Pawson brandished a red card to Liverpool left-back Milos Kerkez for a challenge on Fulham's Harry Wilson. On review, the contact was minimal, warranting at most a yellow. VAR upheld the decision despite evidence suggesting simulation by Wilson. Pawson's past with Fulham—booking multiple Cottagers but often their players—raises questions of inconsistency.[1] This left Liverpool a man down, shifting momentum.[6]

Decision 3: Offside Goal Allowed for Fulham Winner

The decisive error occurred in the 72nd minute when Fulham's Rodrigo Muniz netted the winner from a corner. Replays confirmed Muniz was offside by a yard, impeding Liverpool's keeper, yet VAR cleared it. Pawson's reluctance to overturn, combined with Madley's history of anti-Liverpool calls (post-Klopp criticism), sparked outrage. Data shows Pawson as one of few refs fair to Liverpool, but this match defied that.[5]

Fans and analysts point to systemic issues: Liverpool's wide struggles without AFCON-absent Fulham stars like Iwobi ironically helped the hosts, but poor refereeing stole the show. Pawson's prior games, including Fulham's 2024 loss to Liverpool, add irony. Calls for PGMOL reform grow louder.[1][3]

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