FA Seeks Extended Ban for Millwall's Liam Roberts Following Dangerous Challenge on Crystal Palace's Jean-Philippe Mateta

Sports Football

Posted by NewAdmin on 2025-03-07 09:03:31 |

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In a recent FA Cup fifth-round match, Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts executed a high challenge on Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta, resulting in a severe injury that required 25 stitches to Mateta's left ear. The incident, which occurred just eight minutes into the game, led to Roberts receiving a straight red card and an automatic three-match suspension. However, the Football Association (FA) has deemed this standard sanction "clearly insufficient" and is seeking to impose a longer ban on the goalkeeper.

The challenge took place when Roberts rushed out of his goal area to intercept a forward pass but collided with Mateta, striking him in the head. Mateta was stretchered off the field and later discharged from the hospital after receiving extensive medical treatment.

Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish expressed his dismay over the incident, labeling it "the most reckless challenge I've ever seen."In response, the FA has submitted a claim to extend Roberts' suspension beyond the standard three matches, emphasizing the severity of the foul and the injury sustained by Mateta.

Millwall Football Club has announced its intention to contest the FA's claim for a longer ban. The club released a statement expressing support for Roberts, who has reportedly been subjected to significant online abuse following the incident. Millwall condemned the "character assassination" of their goalkeeper and criticized suggestions that Roberts intended to harm Mateta.

During Millwall's subsequent Championship match against Bristol City, fans demonstrated their support for Roberts by applauding in the eighth minute a gesture that received mixed reactions. Some observers found the tribute inappropriate, given the circumstances of the previous match. As the situation develops, the football community awaits the FA's final decision regarding the length of Roberts' suspension. The incident has sparked discussions about player safety and the adequacy of current disciplinary measures in addressing dangerous play.

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