Liverpool’s Premier League trip to Old Trafford was interrupted by a protest from Manchester United fans and the game has been postponed due to police involvement in the decision.
The Premier League Handbook, according to Section L.12, dictates that if police involvement influences the decisions to postpone or abandon a game, there will be no forfeit or disqualification and the points will not be automatically awarded to any teams involved.
This means that Liverpool, despite having no role whatsoever in the protest, will not be awarded the three points. The Premier League confirmed the decision on their website.
Manchester United supporters were responsible for the delay to kickoff and the subsequent postponement and while they will likely be fined, they will not be forced to automatically forfeit the points to Liverpool.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – MAY 02: Fans are seen protesting Manchester United’s Glazer ownership outside the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Manchester United and Liverpool at Old Trafford on May 02, 2021 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)
A statement on the official Liverpool website reads: “Liverpool Football Club was in full agreement with the decision to postpone today’s fixture as a result of ongoing events at Old Trafford and the surrounding area.
“We will continue to have dialogue with Manchester United, the Premier League and the local authorities to find a suitable date to reschedule.”
Liverpool would have benefitted from a match forfeit as the clash against United is the most difficult game remaining for them this season as they desperately seek to climb the table in pursuit of fourth-place Chelsea.
They are now seven points behind the Blues due to their inability to play on Sunday and it will be that much harder to close the gap due to the psychological advantage the London side has in already having three points on the board.
LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 01: Kai Havertz of Chelsea FC celebrates scoring his teams second goal during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Fulham at Stamford Bridge on May 01, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Chloe Knott – Danehouse/Getty Images)
The Premier League top four has been highly contested this season, with West Ham and Spurs also fighting to make it into the Champions League next season.
Everton were in the mix as well but have predictably failed to sustain their push.
