Joel Matip admits he “killed” Liverpool's FA Cup dream – and says the distraction of VAR can't be used as an excuse for their shock loss.

The Reds were dumped out of the competition in the fourth round on Saturday night when they were beaten 3-2 at home by Premier League strugglers West Bromwich Albion.

Liverpool went head early on through Roberto Firmino before a remarkable collapse saw Jay Rodriguez score twice and Matip direct a cross into his own net, rendering Mohamed Salah's second-half strike mere consolation.

“We started in front, our offensive play was okay, but in the defence we had problems,” said Matip.

“Mistakes like my one kill every team. This mistake cannot happen, I have to clear this ball.

“In the first half, (conceding) three goals, it hurts every team. It was really hard to come back then.

“We tried (to get back) the whole time but it's really hard against a deep-standing team. (West Brom) did what they had to do and it was enough.

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“We have to do everything to turn things (around), to get in better shape and get better results.”

(Image: Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

An action-packed first half was laced with controversy and confusion after the first use of VAR at Anfield, which correctly ruled out a West Brom goal and awarded Liverpool a penalty missed by Firmino.

Speaking to liverpoolfc.com, Matip added: “It was the first time we played with this system, we are not used to it and I think a few things have to work a little bit better.”

“The stop doesn't help us too much but this was not the reason for the result.”