Referee Chris Kavanagh frustrated Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta during their clash with Brighton, particularly after Declan Rice was dismissed under questionable circumstances.
It’s astonishing that Arsenal dropped their first points of the season despite having the better opportunities and being reduced to 10 men. The controversy surrounding Kavanagh’s decisions will likely be a major topic of discussion following the draw against the resilient Seagulls.
Arsenal initially took the lead when Kai Havertz scored, assisted by Bukayo Saka, who set him up with a flick. Havertz then finished by chipping the ball over Bart Verbruggen. However, a puzzling red card for Declan Rice allowed Joao Pedro to equalize, leading to a comeback by Brighton.
Observing pre-game warm-ups and behind-the-scenes activities that don’t make it to TV can be quite fascinating. One of the final preparations the team undergoes involves building up and shooting against backup and third-choice goalkeepers.
For this game, Thomas Setford was added to Arsenal’s bench since Aaron Ramsdale and Karl Hein had departed and Neto had not yet joined the squad. Alexei Rojas, another young goalkeeper, was selected as the third choice.
Arsenal’s goalkeeping coach, Inaki Cana, was positioned next to the goal as the starting players practiced their movements in a structured sequence. The goalkeepers would alternate in and out of the net as the starters performed their drills. Cana provided immediate feedback to each goalkeeper after their turn, helping them improve and prepare better for their next stint. This approach reflects the club’s commitment to maintaining high coaching standards from training sessions to matchday preparations.
Arsenal had several scoring opportunities in the early minutes of the game but failed to convert any. Mikel Arteta expressed his frustration with Ben White, who, despite being crucial for attacking build-up with his runs and passes, was caught out of position as the game progressed. Bukayo Saka, a significant threat, continued to be a key source of danger.
As the match approached halftime, White’s advanced positioning left the defense vulnerable. Arteta, visibly agitated, was heard instructing White to return to his right-back position to support William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes, who were increasingly pressured by Brighton’s aggressive forwards.
Declan Rice received a second yellow card and was dismissed for pushing Joel Veltman’s ball away at the start of the second half, which left many in the crowd baffled by Chris Kavanagh’s decision.
Earlier in the game, Mikel Arteta was livid when Joao Pedro clearly kicked the ball away without penalty. Arteta, with his arms raised, had to shout across the field to Kavanagh and the fourth official on his right.
The situation highlights a clear inconsistency in the refereeing decisions.
