The Premier League has issued an official explanation after Arsenal’s Declan Rice was sent off against Brighton & Hove Albion.
The Gunners had a one-goal lead after Kai Havertz’s strike when Rice received a second yellow card in the 49th minute.
Rice was previously booked in the first half for a difficult challenge on Joel Veltman.
Rice wrestled with Veltman again in the second half, and referee Chris Kavanagh issued him a second yellow card.
Gunners fans were outraged as they requested Veltman be punished for seeming to kick Rice.
However, replays showed Rice moving the ball away.
Following the incident, the Premier League Match Centre social media account issued an explanation.
The statement stated “#ARSBHA – 48”. Declan Rice received a second yellow card for delaying the restart.
According to BBC football correspondent Alex Howell, Rice’s red card came as a surprise to supporters in the stadium. They were screaming for Veltman to be penalized for kicking Rice rather than the ball.
“On video, you can see that Rice nudged the ball, and it appears that the referee made the correct judgment. Rice received two unwarranted yellow cards.”
Brighton equalized within 10 minutes of Rice’s red card, with Brazilian striker Joao Pedro tapping in after Yakuba Minteh’s shot was saved by Gunners keeper David Raya.
TNT Sports analyst Ally McCoist reacted to the goal, saying, “What a pass from Lewis Dunk; Gabriel should do better as he comes over. It’s an excellent follow-up from Joao Pedro.
“The sending poff altered the fixture. “It will be interesting to see what Arsenal does.”
With a man advantage, Brighton pushed for the winning goal, but Arsenal held firm, resulting in a 1-1 tie that broke the Gunners’ perfect start to the season.
Declan Rice sent off for the “worst red card decision you will ever see,” leaving critics astonished.
Arsenal fans are outraged at midfielder Declan Rice’s red card against Brighton & Hove Albion.
Arsenal hosted Brighton at Emirates Stadium on Saturday afternoon in the Premier League.
Mikel Arteta’s side got off to a strong start, dominating the game and eventually leading 1-0 thanks to Kai Havertz’s goal in the 38th minute.
Arsenal were reduced to 10 men in the second half due to midfielder Rice’s second yellow card.
Fans were outraged at first as replays revealed that the Englishman was accidently kicked by Brighton’s Joel Veltman, who had missed the ball.
However, it was discovered that Rice had moved the ball away from the Brighton defender in an attempt to delay the restart.
TNT Sports commentators Darren Fletcher and Ally McCoist were somewhat perplexed as to why Rice was given a second booking.
On social media, one fan commented, “That is absolutely scandalous from the referee.” I can’t believe that decision. Joao Pedro launched the ball halfway up the pitch earlier and was not booked, yet Rice is sent off for that? I honestly cannot believe it. Have some common sense, for f**k’s sake.”
Another tweet read: “How does Declan Rice get a red card for getting kicked????”
A third supporter commented, “That Declan Rice red card has to be one of the worst of the season.” Veltman kicks out and sends the ball towards Rice. Because the ball is also moving, I cannot take a free kick in that situation. Also, Rice committed a soft foul.”
Piers Morgan, an Arsenal fan, said, “What the f**k was that?” Declan Rice sent off after being kicked to pieces? “The worst red card decision I have ever seen.”
McCoist stated on TNT Sports: “I’m not sure what Declan Rice is supposed to do.
“It appeared to be a kick-out at him! I believe Joel Veltman is fortunate to be on the pitch with his kick out.”
Rice is expected to miss Arsenal’s upcoming Premier League encounter against Tottenham Hotspur.