Manchester City took the lead against Watford under controversial circumstances.Having laboured to half-time at 0-0, the Citizens finally broke the deadlock just minutes after the game resumed, with Raheem Sterling providing the finishing touch.However, it looked for all intents and purposes that Sterling was actually offside, prompting a long conversation between the referee and linesman.The BT Sport commentators and in-house refereeing pundit were in agreement that the goal should be disallowed, only for the strike to be confirmed just seconds later.It was deemed that Sterling was actually onside because of a deflection from a Daryl Janmaat during Sergio Aguero's assist.

Controversial opening goal for Man City

The offside rules can be something of a grey area for supporters and it's certainly sparked confusion across Twitter, especially given the magnitude of the game.

It could have a huge impact on Liverpool's title chances and a number of their fans were baffled, citing it as a 'stonewall' offside.

Jamie Carragher even proclaimed on Twitter: "Paul Tierney is this year's Howard Webb."

Take a look at the full video down below and some of the Twitter reaction: 

Was it the correct decision?

In an attempt to clarify the situation, former Premier League official Peter Walton explained: "It's whether or not he's interfered with his opponent, but I think he's interfered with his opponent.

"I am surprised it's happened, but when we see the reverse angle we can see the Watford defender has clearly played the ball onto Sterling and he's therefore played Sterling on by deliberately playing the ball.

"In my opinion, I think Sterling has influenced that defender and therefore should have been signalled offside, but clearly the match officials have said that's a deliberate play from the defender, and therefore he's played Sterling onside."

Do you think the goal should have stood? Have your say in the comments section below.