Former Premier League referee Mike Dean has explained why Marcus Rashford's goal during Manchester United's win over Liverpool was allowed to stand after a recent rule change.
Erik ten Hag recorded his first victory in charge of United as his side beat Liverpool 2-1 at Old Trafford on Monday night. Goals either side of half time from Jadon Sancho and Rashford ensured that a late Mohamed Salah goal was merely a consolation for the visitors.
It was an inspired performance from the Reds as they were roared on by a thunderous atmosphere from their fans, amid the backdrop of a protest over the Glazers ownership of the club. The intake of breath as Rashford was played through one-on-one with Alisson in the 53rd minute was audible, as the forward calmly slotted past the Brazilian keeper.
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Wild celebrations ensued, but a dreaded VAR check threatened to derail the cheers and whistles. Thankfully for United, Rashford was deemed to be onside - although when the replay was first shown, it appeared that the 24-year-old might have just been marginally offside.
Dean has now provided some clarity as to why the goal was allowed to stand, as the former Premier League referee wrote in his column for the Daily Mail, explaining the decision making process.
He said: "Two years ago, Rashford's strike might have been disallowed - one of those 'toenail' offsides that was highlighted when VAR first arrived in England.
"But the Premier League and PGMOL made changes for the good of the game - in agreement with the clubs and in line with UEFA competitions and domestic leagues across Europe.
" First the 'kick point' - the moment a team-mate plays the ball - is confirmed. Then the lines are laid. First a one-pixel line to the second last defender, then another one-pixel line to the attacker, at the point closest to goal with which he can score. As VAR [official], I make sure it's all accurate, then lock it in.
"Once they are locked in, the system will then flash up green for onside or red for offside. It's not subjective. It's factual. But last summer, changes were made so that if the lines are overlapping, it's onside.
"It's too close to call otherwise and so the advantage is given to the attacker, as it was with Rashford at Old Trafford on Monday evening."
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