AliousTottenham boosted their hopes of staying in the Premier League with a dramatic late result at Anfield, as Richarlison struck in the 90th minute to secure a crucial point.
It marked the first time Igor Tudor avoided defeat since taking over from Thomas Frank, and Spurs arguably deserved the outcome despite initially falling behind to Dominik Szoboszlai’s stunning free-kick.
The draw on Merseyside lifted Tottenham a point above the relegation zone, although the visitors might have taken even more from the match had a key decision involving Virgil van Dijk gone their way.
Why wasn’t Van Dijk sent off?
Richarlison proved a persistent threat to the Liverpool defence throughout the game, with his clever runs behind the back line and link-up play alongside Dominic Solanke causing regular problems.
Just after the hour mark, he was sent through on goal following a long clearance from Guglielmo Vicario, but his effort was parried away by Alisson Becker.
Immediately afterwards, the Tottenham forward appealed for a penalty — and replays suggested he had good reason. Footage showed Van Dijk grabbing hold of Richarlison’s shirt inside the penalty area, preventing him from maintaining his balance as he attempted to finish.
Former Professional Game Match Officials Limited chief Keith Hackett believes the incident warranted both a penalty and a red card.
Hackett said the images clearly indicated “a holding offence and the denial of an obvious goal-scoring opportunity,” arguing that the Liverpool defender should have been dismissed while Spurs should also have been awarded a spot-kick.
Fortunately for Tottenham, they still managed to earn a deserved result that could prove pivotal in their fight to avoid relegation.
Richarlison carried much of the attacking responsibility for Spurs at Anfield and delivered a standout display. He repeatedly troubled Van Dijk and the Liverpool back line, and his late goal was a fitting reward for a tireless performance.
Statistics from Sofascore show the Brazilian registered four shots on target and missed one big chance, despite having just 38 touches during the match.
Often isolated in attack — reflected by only 10 accurate passes — Richarlison still made the most of limited service, battling for every opportunity and inspiring his teammates.
In the end, his dramatic equaliser could prove vital, potentially making the difference between relegation and Premier League survival for Tottenham.
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