Ian Wright delivers a sharp critique of Premier League referee Chris Kavanagh regarding the red card issued to Declan Rice during the match against Brighton.
Wright characterized Kavanagh as a referee exhibiting ‘main-character energy’ and expressed his discontent over the decision to send off Rice in the 49th minute of the 1-1 draw at the Emirates, which cost Arsenal two crucial points.
The Arsenal midfielder received a red card after kicking the ball away just as Joel Veltman was preparing to take a free kick, marking his second booking of the match following an earlier yellow card.
While Wright acknowledges that Rice may feel somewhat let down by the two yellow cards, he has channeled his criticism towards Kavanagh’s officiating.
“You have to accept the point,” Wright stated during an interview with Premier League Productions. “I believe Declan will reflect on the two yellows and feel a bit disappointed.
“However, when you assess the refereeing and some of Kavanagh’s decisions, it’s clear he has a tendency for ‘main-character energy.’
“Moreover, when players like Joao Pedro are allowed to kick the ball away in the first half without receiving a booking, it’s understandable to feel aggrieved.
“This is why there was such frustration. The challenge that led to Rice’s first yellow card was a genuine attempt to play the ball, yet he was penalized.
“Then, regarding the second yellow, you have to consider Veltman’s actions. He was deliberately trying to provoke a booking. Veltman had no options to pass to.
“He is fully aware of his actions. These are the scenarios VAR should be examining.
“Declan Rice may not have needed to kick the ball away, but he is simply engaging in the game, just as Veltman is. Why should we recognize Declan’s intent but overlook Veltman’s?”
He isn’t genuinely attempting to pass the ball to anyone. He is merely pretending to do so, which means if it strikes Declan, he will receive a booking and be sent off.
This is precisely what occurred. If we are going to enforce rules regarding players kicking the ball away, then we should have done the same in the first half with Joao Pedro.
The ball had gone out of play, yet he still kicked it away forcefully. That should also be addressed. I am not concerned about the referee’s apologetic demeanor when he had to send Rice off. It should be handled consistently throughout the match. This inconsistency is why Arsenal fans are frustrated.
