Arsenal fans were left puzzled after believing they should have been awarded a first-half penalty against Liverpool. Arsenal took an early lead through Bukayo Saka, who outmaneuvered Liverpoolās left-back Andrew Robertson at nine minutes before sending a powerful shot into the top of CaoimhĆn Kelleherās net. However, Liverpool quickly quieted the home crowd with an equalizer nine minutes later when Trent Alexander-Arnoldās corner was flicked on by Luis Diaz, allowing Virgil van Dijk to head the ball home. In another twist, on 43 minutes, Declan Rice delivered a precise free-kick into the box, which Mikel Merino converted, boosting the home fansā confidence as they headed into halftime.
Despite an encouraging first 45 minutes, Arsenal fans voiced their belief that their team should have been awarded a penalty in the first half.
Around the 30-minute mark, Gabriel Martinelli entered the Liverpool box, where Alexander-Arnold attempted a challenge before Ibrahima KonatƩ appeared to trip the Brazilian with the follow-through. However, referee Anthony Taylor dismissed the appeals. Fans shared their views on social media.
One fan commented, ā19 of 20 teams get a penalty except Arsenal.ā
Another added, āThe game is gone.ā
A third remarked, āGenuinely never seen a more blatant penalty in my life; Konate literally goes through Martinelli with no contact on the ball, and Trent is there too. What on earth.ā
A fourth agreed, āBlatant penalty, but itās Arsenal so play on.ā
Even Manchester United fans weighed in after they conceded a late penalty in their 2-1 loss to West Ham United on Sunday afternoon.
A Man Utd supporter said, āThatās a penalty for Arsenal, but they wonāt give it because itās against Liverpool and not Manchester United. Unlucky Arsenal.ā