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Reed's Last-Minute Equalizer Shocks Liverpool in 2-2 Draw

1/5/2026

Summary

Reed Rescues Fulham

Harrison Reed scored a 97th-minute equalizer to deny Liverpool a win as Fulham drew 2-2 at Craven Cottage.
Harry Wilson put Fulham ahead in the first half.
Florian Wirtz equalized for Liverpool after a VAR review deemed him onside.
Cody Gakpo appeared to win it in stoppage time, but Reed's late strike denied Liverpool.
The result left Liverpool fourth in the Premier League, 14 points behind Arsenal.

Summary

Wirtz Equalizes Controversially

Florian Wirtz's equalizer for Liverpool in the 2-2 draw with Fulham stood after a VAR decision despite an apparent offside.
Wirtz said he thought he was offside and did not celebrate.
The Premier League said thicker VAR lines gave attackers the benefit.
Jamie Carragher (former Liverpool defender) and Mark Schwarzer (former Australia goalkeeper) criticized the decision.
Liverpool remain fourth in the Premier League and will face Arsenal; Fulham sit 11th after the draw.

History

Historical Context

The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, introduced in 2018, aimed to enhance officiating accuracy in football. Following its controversial debut at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where it was credited with a 99.3% success rate in decision-making, VAR has faced ongoing scrutiny. Recent matches, like Fulham vs. Liverpool, highlight debates over its effectiveness, particularly regarding offside calls and the impact on fan engagement.

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Reed Rescues Fulham

Harrison Reed scored a 97th-minute equalizer to deny Liverpool a win as Fulham drew 2-2 at Craven Cottage.
Harry Wilson put Fulham ahead in the first half.
Florian Wirtz equalized for Liverpool after a VAR review deemed him onside.
Cody Gakpo appeared to win it in stoppage time, but Reed's late strike denied Liverpool.
The result left Liverpool fourth in the Premier League, 14 points behind Arsenal.

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