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Penalty Drama At Crystal Palace As VAR Saves Virgil Van Dijk But Punishes Liverpool Teammate Jarell Quansah

Liverpool conceded two penalty kicks during Saturday's Premier League game at Crystal Palace - although only one was taken.

Virgil van Dijk fouled Odsonne Edouard in the first half, prompting referee Andy Madley to point to the spot for the first time.

However, Van Dijk was eventually saved by a VAR review that concluded that Will Hughes had fouled Wataru Endo moments earlier.

Another VAR check later in the game resulted in Madley giving Palace a spot-kick for real.

But Madley did not call a foul during live play after Jarell Quansah had kicked Jean-Philippe Mateta, rather than the ball, when attempting a clearance.

The game continued for one minute and 45 seconds before the VAR advised the on-field referee to stop play and visit the pitch-side monitor for a second time. 

Madley had appeared slightly reluctant to overturn his decision in the first half but he needed very little convincing about Quansah's foul after watching a couple of replays.

Quansah was substituted off by manager Jurgen Klopp before the penalty was taken and converted by Mateta to put Palace 1-0 up in the 57th minute.

Palace led for just 19 minutes before Mo Salah equalized for Liverpool with his 200th goal for the club.

Salah's landmark goal came moments after Palace forward Jordan Ayew had been sent off for picking up his second yellow card.

Liverpool went on to win the game 2-1 thanks to a fine strike by Harvey Elliott in added time.

READ MORE: Liverpool Player Ratings - 8/10 Alisson Shines In Win At Crystal Palace

Referee Andrew Madley pictured looking at the VAR monitor during a Premier League game between Crystal Palace and Liverpool in December 2023

Referee Andrew Madley pictured looking at the VAR monitor during Saturday's Premier League game between Crystal Palace and Liverpool