Premier League confirms Liverpool goal vs. Bournemouth was offside

An incorrect interpretation of the new offside rule cost Bournemouth its first ever point in England's top flight.

The Premier League confirmed Friday that the officiating crew in charge of last week's match against Liverpool incorrectly allowed Christian Benteke's goal despite the fact that Philippe Coutinho, who was in an offside position, attempted to make contact with a cross into the penalty area.

Clear attempt to play the ball by Red10 (stretches with right leg in an attempt to play the ball), no contact is made with the ball, but the ball is close to Red10.

Red10's actions impact on an opponent, in this case the goalkeeper (goalkeeper needs to delay his action to wait and see if the attacking player in an offside position touches/plays the ball).

Expected outcome: Offside offence

(Courtesy: Premier League)

The response from the league follows Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe's request for clarification. He contacted referees' chief Mike Riley, but had not been given an explanation.

He later expressed empathy regarding the difficult nature of a referee's job to make instantaneous calls.

"They have a split second to make a decision so I respect that and the challenge their job brings," he told reporters.

"We felt we were on the wrong end of not just the two big decisions in the game but there were several other little things that went against us."

The Premier League's ruling, however, does not impact the outcome of the game.