Jeremy Doku avoids conceding a late penalty as winger’s ‘karate kick’ high tackle on Alexis Mac Allister is ruled ‘reasonable’ by VAR as hosts denied late chance

Jeremy Doku avoided awarding a late penalty after VAR deemed a high tackle on Alexis Mac Allister “was played in a reasonable position”.

In the eighth minute of added time, a high tackle from Doku caught Mac Allister in the chest, with pundits wary of whether the Manchester City winger would end up in trouble.

The clash ended in a 1-1 draw and title holders Arsenal finished the weekend at the top of the table.

John Stones opened the scoring before a second-half penalty through Argentine midfielder Mac Allister allowed Liverpool to get back into the game.

“He’s a very lucky boy,” Gary Neville said after the inning.

The full-back came on in the 69th minute to replace Julián Álvarez.

Fans were angered by the tackle as they believed Liverpool should have been awarded a late penalty.

Mac Allister scored the eventual equalizer for Liverpool, although he expected more at full time.

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Fans were quick to highlight the reckless tackle, with many Liverpool fans hoping for a late penalty for the hosts.

One user shared an image of a karate high kick with the caption: “Doku on MacAllister, VAR: played the ball.”

‘Doku just kicked Mac Allister in the chest in the 98th minute and was not awarded a penalty. Misfortune.’ added another.

‘NO, APPARENTLY THE REFEREES WANT KLOPP TO WIN BUT DOKU CAN KICK KARATE IN THE BOX AND HE’S NOT A FEATHER?????’ one published.

“That’s a stone penalty from Doku on Mac Allister, shocking, shocking, shocking decision,” wrote a fourth.

Liverpool had equalized early in the second half through Alexis Mac Allister after Ederson fouled Darwin Núñez.

Moments later, the goalkeeper was substituted due to injury and Stefan Ortega came in to replace him from the bench.

Liverpool face Sparta Praha at home on Thursday, while Manchester City host Newcastle in the FA Cup quarter-finals on Saturday.