Liverpool faced points deduction call after Arne Slot's behaviour at Everton

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Liverpool boss Arne Slot confronted referee Michael Oliver after a controversial VAR decision. While the match will make history as the first derby to be staged at Everton's new riverside ground on the banks of the Mersey, it seems far more likely to be remembered for what unfolds on the pitch.It was following the tempestuous derby of February 12, 2025, that Liverpool boss Arne Slot was thought to have overstepped the mark in his confrontation with referee Michael Oliver, with calls for a points deduction even circulating in the aftermath of the clash.The enthralling 2-2 draw served as a fitting farewell derby at Everton's former Goodison Park home.Liverpool appeared to be heading home with all three points courtesy of strikes from Mohamed Salah and Alexis Mac Allister, before Blues defender James Tarkowski struck a breathtaking 98th-minute equaliser in front of the Gwladys Street end.Nevertheless, the goal was only awarded following a lengthy VAR review for a potential foul on Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konate, much to Slot's considerable frustration.The goal, and its turbulent aftermath, rather aptly encapsulated the 120 derbies contested at Goodison throughout its remarkable history in a brief but telling moment.Everton star Abdoulaye Doucoure taunted Reds fans following his side's late goal, prompting a confrontation with Liverpool's Curtis Jones, as players from both camps clashed before referee Oliver brandished red cards to both midfielders.Slot then launched into a heated exchange with Oliver at the final whistle, making his feelings abundantly clear regarding the decision to allow Tarkowski's controversial late goal, which ultimately earned him a two-match touchline ban.

Slot's assistant, Sipke Hulshoff, was also dismissed following the chaotic scenes.In the aftermath, former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett suggested the explosive incident could have set the wheels in motion for points deductions, arguing that the routine practice of issuing fines to those who cross the line was no longer sufficient.Arne Slot was frustrated after the last-ever derby at Goodison Park (Image: Getty Images)"I would like to see referees at the final whistle moving towards the tunnel rather than standing in the middle looking for handshakes and any complimentary comments," Hackett told Football Insider."This will I feel reduce any tensions that have built up in the game. Despite Hackett's conjecture, there has been no suggestion from the Premier League that points deductions for on-pitch offences are forthcoming.Following the match, Slot said: "It happened a lot and the emotions got the better of me.

If I could do it differently, If I look back at it, I would love to do it differently. I would do it [differently] next time as well."