In a fiery reaction following a controversial moment during Saturday’s FA Cup match, Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish expressed his outrage over Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts’ reckless challenge on Jean-Philippe Mateta.
The incident, which occurred just eight minutes into the game at Selhurst Park, resulted in Roberts receiving a straight red card after a VAR review.
The Incident that Shocked Everyone
Roberts, who appeared to be attempting to play the ball, ended up striking Mateta in the head with both of his feet off the ground.
The 30-year-old goalkeeper’s left boot made contact with Mateta’s skull, a blow that left the Crystal Palace striker needing medical attention.
Mateta was substituted off the field and rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Parish, who spoke to BBC Sport during the halftime break, provided an update on Mateta’s condition.
“So far, we know he’s got a bad gash behind his ear and a head injury,” said Parish.
“He’s at the hospital, so we hope for the best.”
The chairman couldn’t hide his frustration over the challenge, adding that it was the most reckless tackle he had ever seen in his long time watching football.
A Dangerous and Unnecessary Challenge
Parish didn’t hold back in his criticism of Roberts, suggesting that the goalkeeper needed to reflect on his actions.
“He’s endangering a fellow professional – and maybe even his life with a challenge like that,” said Parish, visibly upset.
He also questioned why the referee needed to consult the VAR screen, calling the challenge “dreadful” and “unnecessary.”
The Palace chairman made it clear that his main concern at that moment was Mateta’s health, not the outcome of the game.
A Professional Response from Mateta’s Teammates
Despite the shocking injury, Crystal Palace’s players rallied together and continued to fight in the match.
At halftime, Palace led 2-1. Parish praised his team for their professionalism in continuing the game with focus and dedication after such a disturbing incident.
“They have a duty of care towards their fellow professionals,” he said, acknowledging the professionalism of the squad, but stressing that Roberts’ challenge lacked that same responsibility.
Palace Secure FA Cup Quarter-Final Spot Despite Setback
Despite the emotional toll of the injury, Crystal Palace managed to seal a 3-1 victory over 10-man Millwall, earning a place in the FA Cup quarter-finals for the third time in the last 10 years.
The match was marred by the incident, but Palace pushed on with an own goal from Millwall’s Japhet Tanganga, followed by a second goal from Daniel Munoz.
Millwall pulled one back through Wes Harding, but substitute Eddie Nketiah sealed the win for Palace with a late goal.
Mateta’s Impact and Injury Concerns
Before the incident, Mateta had been in exceptional form, scoring eight goals in his last nine matches.
The striker had also impressed with his creativity, providing an assist in a 2-0 win against Fulham last month.
Mateta, who was signed for a fee of around £27million from Mainz in January 2022, has been a key player for Palace.
His contract was extended last year, keeping him at the club until 2027.
As the club looks forward to the FA Cup quarter-finals, the fate of Mateta’s recovery remains the priority, with the chairman’s strong words echoing his concern for player safety over football’s competitive side.