BetMGMBetMGM

Laura Woods: Rice right to be booked but Joao Pedro incident highlights inconsistency

That Rice red card…

The events leading up to Declan Rice’s red card against Brighton could probably be classed as petty – from both players.

I understand that in these games there’s a lot of pressure to get decisions right first and foremost, but if you are going to bind these players by the ‘letter of the law’ you must be consistent.

By the letter of the law, Rice did kick the ball away. As small as it was – and potentially not deliberate in the sense he aimed to delay the restart – he did it so he must get booked.

At the start of the season we were told referees would be taking more action when they see a clear and deliberate action to delay the restart. But how did Joao Pedro get away without a booking for kicking the ball away – further, by the way – in the first half?

If the rules are going to be tougher, they must also be consistent. Or events like this which spark huge debate and criticism will happen all season long.

Like a lot of the rule changes, do they make sense? Does the punishment fit the crime? In this case I think it’s very, very harsh and ruined a potentially good game of football.

Slot’s Liverpool already in top gear

I’m not sure Liverpool fans could have hoped for a better start in the league under Arne Slot. Three games, three wins, zero goals conceded and a thumping of Manchester United at Old Trafford forced Erik ten Hag into looking more like Dobby than the Harry Potter he referenced in his press conference.

Slot came to Old Trafford knowing exactly what United’s weaknesses were and how to exploit them – their lack of control and their panic when they lose the ball.

But he has also ensured their defence is one of the best in the league once again.

This is a very well-coached team already and managed to show United up in the worst way. Despite all the talent in their team and the great position Jurgen Klopp left them in, I really thought Liverpool would need time to adjust under a new manager… but I’m so impressed.

They’re already looking the part and a proper danger to the teams vying for the top.

Discover extensive Premier League odds markets on our dedicated Premier League betting page. It's showtime!

We're sorry!

Unfortunately, BetMGM isn't available in your country.