Late drama at Stamford Bridge saw Chelsea emerge as victors against Liverpool, but Virgil van Dijk wasn’t happy with Anthony Taylor’s decision.
In what was a massive game for both sides, Chelsea were able to grab all three points with youngster Estevao providing the heroics.
The magnitude of the late winner was made apparent by the celebrations from the home side, including Enzo Maresca, whose enthusiasm earned him a second yellow. Not that the Italian will mind too much, having seen his side best the reigning champions at Stamford Bridge for a second time.
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But the frenzy that erupted following the 95th-minute winner left the Liverpool captain questioning the referee.
Virgil van Dijk’s post-match interaction with Anthony Taylor
Once the final whistle blew, Virgil van Dijk went straight to referee Anthony Taylor, clearly not happy with a decision made in the late stages.
After the game, the Liverpool captain was asked about the encounter, as is reported by GOAL.
He explained his perspective, saying: “I saw the celebrations, and rightly so. But I thought the celebrations went over two minutes, so I looked at the clock when he blew his whistle – it was 98.
“I was thinking: ‘How is that possible? I was just asking a very polite question at that point – I’m not angry or aggressive. I was just asking where the logic behind it is.”
The Dutchman thinks the full-time whistle was blown prematurely, given the time spent by the home side celebrating their dramatic winner. It’s not the first time Van Dijk has taken issue with a decision from Taylor.
Liverpool can have no complaints after Chelsea loss
Last year’s title-winners have ridden their fair share of luck this season, with late drama going their way in most games so far this season.
Van Dijk’s point about the lengthy celebrations isn’t coming from a sour place, but it is an attempt to discredit Chelsea’s marquee win. If the roles were reversed, they certainly wouldn’t be pointing it out.
For Liverpool, the result will lead to an international break of criticism and concern about their title prospects, while Chelsea’s break will be far more positive after this result.
That’s football for you.
The Blues were good value for their win at the weekend, and Van Dijk’s comments won’t change that.
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