This article covers a developing story. Continue to check back with us as we will be adding more information as it becomes available.
The Premier League have explained why Chelsea were not awarded a penalty after the ball seemingly hit Declan Rice’s arm in the box just before half-time.
A poor start from Liam Rosenior’s XI allowed the Gunners to take the lead from a set-piece, as William Saliba turned the ball in after a corner routine. But the Blues found a way back into the game through a corner of their own when Piero Hincapie nodded the ball into his own net.
However, just seconds before Chelsea grabbed their goal, there was outrage in the away end after the ball seemingly hit Declan Rice’s arm from a corner delivery by Reece James. The England international was challenging Jorrel Hato for the ball, with both his arms wrapped around the Dutchman.
As the ball sailed into the box, Rice tilted his body and lifted his arm up. Making contact with the ball, David Raya had to pull off an excellent stop to keep it out, but players in blue then surrounded Darren England and demanded a penalty.
Check Out the Incident Below:
Why Chelsea Didn’t Get Penalty Against Arsenal
The referee waved away claims, as VAR went on to check the incident quickly while Rice protested his innocence. John Brooks cleared the incident, informing the referee that play could resume.
In the aftermath, the league’s Match Centre account on X elaborated on why no spot kick was given. They said: “The referee’s call of no penalty was checked and confirmed by VAR – with it deemed there was no punishable handball offence with Rice challenging an opponent as the ball hit his arm.”
More to follow…
This article covers a developing story. Continue to check back with us as we will be adding more information as it becomes available.
About Author
