Liverpool vs Brentford: Referee and VAR Confirmed for Anfield Clash | OneFootball

Liverpool vs Brentford: Referee and VAR Confirmed

As Liverpool prepare to welcome Brentford to Anfield for their first home game of the season, the Premier League has announced the officials for the match. Two familiar figures will oversee proceedings, aiming to keep the action fair and without controversy.

Officials Set for Liverpool’s Home Opener

Stuart Attwell has been appointed as the referee for the Liverpool vs Brentford clash, while Michael Oliver will take charge as the lead VAR. Supporting them will be assistant referees Simon Bennett and Dan Robathan, with Michael Salisbury as the fourth official and Mat Wilkes serving as the assistant VAR.

This match follows victories for both sides in their opening games. Liverpool secured a solid 2-0 win against Ipswich, while Brentford triumphed 2-1 over Crystal Palace, though their victory was not without controversy. A disallowed Eberechi Eze goal due to a refereeing error cast a shadow over Brentford’s win, and the hope is that Sunday’s game will be free from such incidents.

Previous Controversy Raises Concerns

Eze’s disallowed goal led to an apology from referee Sam Barrott, who admitted to blowing his whistle prematurely as Eze took a free-kick that found the net. Such incidents put the spotlight on officials, and fans will be hoping for a more straightforward match at Anfield.

Attwell, who was the VAR for Liverpool’s win at Portman Road last weekend, faced his own share of controversy. He could not intervene in a critical moment when Ipswich’s Wes Burns deliberately handled the ball after a failed challenge. Referee Tim Robinson awarded a free-kick but opted not to issue a second yellow card.

Former referee Dermot Gallagher weighed in on the incident, stating, “I do think it’s a handball, he’s really lucky. He quite clearly swipes at the ball… The covering player saves him from getting a yellow card.”

As Liverpool and Brentford prepare to face off, all eyes will be on the officials to ensure a fair and smooth encounter.