Declan Rice was stunned to be controversially sent off in Arsenal’s 1-1 draw against Brighton.
The England international received a first yellow card in the first half for a reckless tackle, before receiving a second booking for kicking the ball away after Brighton were awarded a free kick, minutes into the second half.
Rice kicked the ball just before Joel Veltman could clear it, resulting in a collision between the two players.
The Arsenal man went down in pain and expected Veltman to be given a yellow card. However, referee Chris Kavanagh surprisingly gave Rice a second booking.
Arsenal fans react after ‘harsh’ Declan Rice red card
The former West Ham captain was shocked by the decision, and many Arsenal fans were also baffled, taking to social media to express their disappointment.
One fan tweeted, “Joao Pedro kicked the ball away in the first half and didn’t receive a yellow card. Rice gets sent off for the same offense after being on the receiving end of violent conduct.”
Another wrote, “I saw Joao Pedro kick the ball away in the first half with everyone shouting for it and the ref ignoring.”
A third commented, “How does Declan Rice get a red card for getting kicked????”
Popular Arsenal fan and journalist, Piers Morgan was also shocked at the decision, expressing his disappointment, saying, ”What the f*ck was that? Declan Rice sent off for being kicked to pieces? Worst red card decision I’ve ever seen.”
The draw puts an end to the Gunners’ perfect start to the season. They will be looking to bounce back from this setback when they take on local rivals Tottenham Hotspur after the international break.
