Liverpool’s new signing Alexis Mac Allister faced a nightmare debut at Anfield as he was shown a red card for a studs-up challenge on Bournemouth’s Ryan Christie. The incident occurred during Liverpool’s home opener against AFC Bournemouth in the Premier League.
Mac Allister’s red card came in the 58th minute of the match, leaving Liverpool with a numerical disadvantage for the remainder of the game. Referee Thomas Bramall deemed the challenge to be a high and dangerous one, leading to Mac Allister’s expulsion from the field. Despite the potential for VAR intervention, the decision stood.
Pundits and fans across X reacted to the sending off, most believing that a red card was too harsh for the challenge:
You can’t even go in for a challenge anymore. This is never a red card for Mac Allister. The game is gone 🤦♂️pic.twitter.com/2EEoyEy0JD
— LLF (@laligafrauds) August 19, 2023
Mac Allister sees red but it’s a nonsense. Referee and VAR at Anfield having a poor day.
— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) August 19, 2023
Honestly, the game has gone. How can that be a red card for Mac Allister…and how the hell has it not been overturned by VAR?
Clearly going for ball, contact is foot to foot because that's the height the ball was. Truly ridiculous decision.#LFC #LIVBOU
— David Maddock (@MaddockMirror) August 19, 2023
The incident added to the drama of Liverpool’s league opener, which saw them concede an early goal before turning the game around to lead 3-1, just minutes after Mac Allister’s dismissal. Wataru Endo, another recent Liverpool signing, was brought on to strengthen the midfield as Liverpool aimed to secure their first three points of the season.
Liverpool fans will be hoping for improved performances in the upcoming matches as they strive to overcome this setback and make a strong start to the new Premier League campaign.
