Millwall will have to wait to learn the fate of goalkeeper Liam Roberts following his sending off in the FA Cup defeat against Crystal Palace on Saturday.
The 30-year-old was handed a rare start against the Premier League outfit in their fifth round tie. However, he lasted just eight minutes when he was dismissed for a horrific challenge on Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta.
The Frenchman had broken free of the Millwall defence, only to be met by Roberts. The shot stopper attempted to clear his lines but ended up kicking the attacker in the face in a move that wouldn’t have looked out of place in Hollywood movie The Karate Kid.
Mateta was given oxygen on the pitch before being taken to hospital, where he was administered a number of stitches. Staggeringly, referee Michael Oliver failed to brandish an immediate red card and instead needed VAR intervention.
FA Consider Ban Appeal
According to The Telegraph, the Football Association are considering launching an appeal to extend Robert’s ban. A straight red card is accompanied by a standard three-game ban, but it is claimed that the governing body are looking at imposing a more serious punishment.
The former Northampton Town goalkeeper has acted as understudy to first choice goalkeeper Lukas Jensen this season, featuring in just two Championship and two FA Cup matches. However, Millwall made the decision to allow third choice Connal Trueman to join MK Dons last month on loan, leaving the Lions with just two senior goalkeepers in their squad.
Oliver Blasted For VAR Use
The challenge garnered much media attention over the weekend, especially Michael Oliver’s assessment of the incident. Speaking to Football Insider, former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett was full of criticism for the official:
“What an appalling challenge and I have to ask the question why one of the world’s top referees failed to immediately show a red card. It is frankly an absolute no brainer.
“What is also appalling is that referee Michael Oliver had to rely on VAR in order to deliver the outcome. It didn’t need a second look, it was horrendous.”
Writer’s View
Liam Roberts’ challenge was one of the most horrific in recent times. Although a three-match ban comes as standard, it is no surprise to learn that the FA are considering imposing a more serious punishment. Millwall manager Alex Neil has already stated he had no complaints about the red card and he would likely take a similar view if his ban is extended. However, Millwall will be sweating on the outcome and with no other cover, will be hoping that first choice Lukas Jensen can stay fit in order to avoid a selection headache.
