# Liverpool's Rocky Referee History: Controversial Calls and Heated Debates That Ignite Passion and Protest
Liverpool Football Club has long been known for its passionate fans, dramatic games, and a history of controversy. Few aspects of the club's legacy are as polarizing as their encounters with referees and their decisions on the pitch. Over the years, Liverpool has faced numerous contentious moments where referee calls have sparked heated debates, protests, and even divided the fanbase.
## The 2005 Champions League Final: A Game of Controversy
One of the most infamous moments in Liverpool's history occurred during the 2005 Champions League final against AC Milan. The game ended in a dramatic penalty shootout, with Liverpool eventually winning 3-0 on penalties. However, the match was overshadowed by a controversial decision by referee Pierluigi Collina. When Juventus' Zebefran played as the fifth penalty taker for Liverpool, Collina mistakenly showed a yellow card instead of letting him shoot. This led to protests from Liverpool fans and accusations of bias.
Beckham, who was on the bench that day, became a symbol of frustration for fans, and the incident remains a contentious topic among Reds to this day.
## The 2018-19 Premier League Title Race: A Battle of Decisions
The 2018-19 Premier League season was one of the most exciting in recent memory, with Liverpool and Manchester City fighting for supremacy. The season culminated in a dramatic match against Newcastle United, where Liverpool trailed 5-1 at halftime. A stunning comeback saw Liverpool level the game, but the match was marred by controversial decisions from referee Anthony Taylor.
One of the most debated moments was Taylor's decision to award a penalty to Liverpool for a handball by Raul Jimenez. The goalkeeping save by Alisson Becker became iconic, but the penalty led to accusations of bias and influenced the outcome of the game. Fans on both sides of the debate were left fuming, and the decision became a talking point across the footballing world.
## The 2019-20 Premier League Title Race: A New Controversy
The 2019-20 season brought another layer of drama, this time with Liverpool chasing a record-breaking Premier League title. A controversial incident occurred during a match against Everton, where the Reds were docked a penalty point due to an incorrect offside decision. The match ended in a dramatic 1-0 victory for Everton, but Liverpool were later awarded three points after a review.
This became a landmark moment in football as it marked the first time the Premier League implemented a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) to overturn such decisions. However, the initial confusion and frustration among fans reignited debates about the role of referees in shaping the outcome of games.
## Conclusion
Liverpool's history is filled with moments where referees' decisions have sparked intense debates and protests. These controversial calls have not only added drama to the club's story but have also highlighted the passion and intensity of their fans. Whether it's the 2005 Champions League final, the 2018-19 Premier League title race, or the 2019-20 season, each of these moments has left an indelible mark on Liverpool's legacy.
As the club continues to dominate English football, the controversial referee decisions will remain a defining part of their history, proving that no game is ever just a game when it's played in Liverpool.