Premier League Explains Anthony Gordon’s Red Card in Newcastle vs Liverpool Thriller

The Premier League has shed light on the controversial moment that saw Newcastle United forward Anthony Gordon sent off in Sunday’s dramatic 3-2 defeat to Liverpool at St. James’ Park.

The incident occurred in the first half when Gordon lunged into a challenge on Virgil van Dijk. Referee Simon Hooper initially brandished a yellow card, but after being called to the pitchside VAR monitor, he upgraded the punishment to a straight red.

In a statement shared via the Premier League Match Centre, the reasoning was made clear:

“After VAR review, the referee overturned his on-field decision of a yellow card to Anthony Gordon. The Newcastle United number 10 commits a serious foul play challenge. The challenge is with speed and makes clear contact on the Liverpool number 4’s calf. My final decision is red card to Newcastle United number 10.” — Simon Hooper.

The sending-off proved costly for Newcastle, as Liverpool capitalized on the man advantage. The game ended in late heartbreak for the Magpies, with 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha netting a stunning 100th-minute winner for the Reds.

Opinion: Was the Red Card Harsh or Fair?

Decisions like Gordon’s red card always spark heated debates among fans. On one hand, the replay showed a high-speed challenge that endangered Van Dijk, and referees are under strict instructions to protect players from reckless tackles. In that sense, Hooper’s final call aligned with the modern interpretation of serious foul play.

On the other hand, many Newcastle fans will feel aggrieved, arguing that Gordon’s challenge lacked intent and was more mistimed than malicious. Football is, after all, a high-tempo game where split-second decisions can blur the line between hard play and foul play.

What cannot be denied, however, is the impact of the decision. Newcastle, already struggling for rhythm, were forced into damage control, and Liverpool’s never-say-die spirit once again shone through in one of the most dramatic finishes of the season so far.

For neutrals, the game had everything—controversy, a red card, and the emergence of a 16-year-old hero. For Newcastle fans, though, it will be remembered as a painful reminder of how one referee’s decision can change the entire course of a match.