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 Liverpoolโs left-back Andrew Robertson at nine minutes before sending a powerful shot into the top of Caoimhรญn Kelleherโs net. However, Liverpool quickly quieted the home crowd with an equalizer nine minutes later when Trent Alexander-Arnoldโs 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 fansโ 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 Konatรฉ 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, โ19 of 20 teams get a penalty except Arsenal.โ
Another added, โThe game is gone.โ
A third remarked, โGenuinely 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.โ
A fourth agreed, โBlatant penalty, but itโs Arsenal so play on.โ
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, โThatโs a penalty for Arsenal, but they wonโt give it because itโs against Liverpool and not Manchester United. Unlucky Arsenal.โ