The aftermath of Arsenal’s recent draw with Brighton has focused on the controversy surrounding the sending off of Declan Rice.
Arsenal were ahead in this game, thanks to Kai Havertz’s lofted opener, when Declan Rice was given his marching orders soon after half time. Less than ten minutes later, after a period of sustained pressure having been buoyed by the midfielder’s dismissal, the Seagulls were level.
Mikel Arteta’s side couldn’t find a way to get back in front, and subsequently dropped Premier League points for the first time this season.
Chris Kavanagh’s decision to show Rice a red card was a turning point in this game, and has sparked huge controversy.
Gary Lineker and Danny Murphy clashed over Rice’s red card, with the latter feeling it was justified, and the former believing it to be overly harsh.
Likewise, Arsenal legend Paul Merson was shocked by the decision. Meanwhile, Arteta was able to keep his cool when discussing the incident post-match, but the Arsenal manager will obviously feel that his side were cruelly punished.
Former Premier League referee blasts Chris Kavanagh over Rice decision
Now, former Premier League referee Mark Halsey has given his verdict on the decision.
Writing in The Sun, Halsey stated: “Declan Rice’s dismissal against Brighton was a poor decision by referee Chris Kavanagh.
“The Arsenal midfielder was shown a second yellow in the 49th minute for delaying a restart. However, the ball was rolling when Brighton’s Joel Veltman took the free-kick, so the restart would not have taken place as it would have been wrong in Law. Therefore, the delaying a restart does not apply.
“Kavanagh went looking for trouble and he found it. A referee of his calibre at this level should not be sending players off for this. He should have managed the situation better by speaking to both players.
“Rice should have received a final warning for flicking the ball away and Veltman was also lucky to escape punishment for kicking the England star.
Noting an incident earlier in the match that went unpunished by Kavanagh, Halsey also said: “Kavanagh acted on Rice but why didn’t he punish Joao Pedro for booting the ball downfield?… It’s the inconsistency from our officials that really annoys managers, players and fans.”
Arsenal still at fault against Brighton
Whilst the Gunners have valid reasons to complain about Kavanagh and his decision to send off Rice, the fact remains that Arteta and his players still need to take responsibility for this result.
When the North London club were dominant in the first half they failed to make their supremacy count for as much as it should have. A one goal lead is always vulnerable.
They also had chances to get back in front before the final whistle but failed to take them as their play in the final third was sloppy. They will need to improve in their upcoming fixtures, especially as they have a North London derby clash against Tottenham Hotspur up next.
Arsenal fans criticised Martin Odegaard for his performance in this match, and he will certainly have to raise his level next time out, as he won’t have the suspended Rice available to support him in the middle of the park.
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