Liverpool vs Chelsea: Why Adrian was not penalised after penalty save to win Reds Uefa Super Cup

The ex-West Ham goalkeeper stopped Tammy Abraham’s spot kick to secure a 5-4 win on penalties after the sides drew 2-2 after extra-time

Adrian was the hero as Liverpool triumphed over Chelsea on penalties in the Uefa Super Cup in Istanbul.

The Spanish goalkeeper, signed last week after being released by West Ham, made the decisive penalty save against Tammy Abraham as the Reds prevailed 5-4 in the shoot-out following a 2-2 draw after extra-time.

Replays showed Adrian off his line though before the Blues youngster had made contact with the ball though, leading many to question why the spot kick was not ordered to be retaken.

It has emerged now however, via ESPN’s Dale Johnson, that Uefa Chief Refereeing Officer Roberto Rosetti briefed before the Super Cup concerning the use of VAR surrounding penalties.

If goalkeepers leave their line before the penalty is taken, it will only be ordered to be retaken if there is a “blatant and clear violation of the new law”.

The approach to the use of VAR resembles the Premier League’s approach.

There was also controversy surrounding Stephanie Frappart’s decision to award the Blues a penalty for Adrian’s foul on Tammy Abraham.

Adrian stepped off his line before Abraham struck his penalty (ESPN)

VAR checked the decision, but it was not overturned because there was not a clear reason not to give the penalty, rather than needing to find a clear reason to give it.

Jorginho converted to equalise to extend the match to a penalty shoot-out after the 2-2 draw after extra-time.

The Reds next face Southampton on Saturday, while Frank Lampard’s side take on Leicester on Sunday in their first home match of the season.