An official explanation has been offered by the Premier League after Arsenal star Declan Rice was sent off against Brighton and Hove Albion.
The Gunners were holding a one-goal advantage, courtesy of Kai Havertz, when Rice received a second yellow card in the 49th minute. Rice had already been booked in the first half for a harsh tackle on Joel Veltman. In the second half, after another encounter with Veltman, Rice was shown a second yellow card by referee Chris Kavanagh. Gunners supporters were outraged, demanding Veltman be penalized for what seemed like a kick at Rice. However, replays revealed that Rice had merely nudged the ball away. The Premier League Match Centre clarified the situation on social media, stating, “#ARSBHA – 48’. The referee gave Declan Rice a second yellow card for delaying the restart.” BBC football reporter Alex Howell noted that the red card for Rice was unexpected by fans, who were initially calling for Veltman’s punishment. It was only upon reviewing the replay that it became clear Rice had indeed nudged the ball, suggesting the referee’s decision was correct and that the two yellow cards for Rice were unnecessary.
Within 10 minutes of Rice’s red card, Brighton equalized with a goal from Brazilian forward Joao Pedro, who tapped in a rebound after Yakuba Minteh’s shot was saved by Arsenal’s goalkeeper, David Raya.
TNT Sports commentator Ally McCoist responded to the goal, saying: “What a pass from Lewis Dunk. Gabriel should have done better when he came across. It’s a superb follow-up from Joao Pedro.”
He added, “The red card has changed the dynamics of the match. It will be interesting to see how Arsenal respond.”
With the advantage of an extra player, Brighton pressed for a winning goal, but Arsenal held strong, and the match ended in a 1-1 draw, ending the Gunners’ perfect start to the season.
