Premier League make official announcement on Ward-Prowse controversy in Liverpool v West Ham
James Ward-Prowse was embroiled in a controversy as West Ham United suffered a 2-1 loss against Liverpool on Sunday.
West Ham’s plans of ending their four-game winless run failed after they succumbed to a 2-1 defeat against the runaway Premier League champions at Anfield on 13 April.
Liverpool were in front for the majority of the game after Luis Diaz’s 18th-minute goal gave them the lead, but the Irons had the chance to claim a valuable point away from home after Andy Robertson’s own goal drew them level late on.
However, Graham Potter’s side failed to hold on, allowing Virgil van Dijk to put the hosts back in front just three minutes later.
Premier League address Ward-Prowse controversy
While Premier League officials are often criticised for their refereeing, Andy Madley and his assistants had a good outing on this occasion.
However, that is not to say there was no drama at all, as Liverpool wanted a penalty after an alleged handball on Ward-Prowse in the 54th minute.
Following a corner situation, the ball glanced off Van Dijk and hit Ward-Prowse on the arm.
| Team | Matches | Wins | Draws | Losses | Goal Difference | Points |
| 1. Liverpool | 32 | 23 | 7 | 2 | 43 | 76 |
| 16. West Ham | 32 | 9 | 8 | 15 | -18 | 35 |
However, Madley and VAR decided it would be harsh to penalise the West Ham midfielder as he was looking the other way as the ball struck him.
While the game went on at Anfield, the Premier League took to social media to clarify the decision, explaining that the handball was deemed to be ‘accidental’ after being checked by VAR.
Addressing the incident, the Premier League wrote via their Match Centre handle on X (13 April): “The referee’s call of no penalty for a potential handball was checked and confirmed by VAR – with Ward-Prowse’s action deemed to be accidental and not a handball offence.”
#LIVWHU – 54’
— Premier League Match Centre (@PLMatchCentre) April 13, 2025
The referee’s call of no penalty for a potential handball was checked and confirmed by VAR – with Ward-Prowse’s action deemed to be accidental and not a handball offence.
West Ham woes under Potter continue
The result meant that West Ham are now winless in five consecutive games.
It is also worth noting that the East London outfit have won only three of their 13 games under Potter in all competitions.
While the English tactician deserves credit for steering the Hammers away from the relegation zone, the team’s performances have left much to be desired.
David Sullivan must either back Potter in the summer transfer window if he wants the results to impress or he should already start considering a replacement for the head coach.