A Night of Applause and Reflection at The Den
Applause broke out at Millwall’s The Den in the eighth minute of their Championship clash with Bristol City on Tuesday night, marking the exact moment when goalkeeper Liam Roberts was shown a straight red card for a dangerous challenge on Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta. This was a poignant moment, echoing the events of Saturday’s FA Cup match where Mateta was hospitalised after a similar incident, requiring 25 stitches and extensive on-field treatment, including an oxygen mask. The match was delayed as Mateta was carried off on a stretcher, a scene that left the entire stadium in shock.
The Incident and Its Aftermath
The challenge on Mateta was initially not given a red card, but after a VAR review, Michael Oliver sent off Roberts, who was making his first appearance of the season. Despite the rash nature of the tackle, it appeared that Roberts’ intention was to get the ball, not the player. In fact, Roberts reached out to Mateta on Saturday, offering a personal apology that was accepted. The incident sparked intense debate and criticism, with Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish describing the tackle as one of the worst he had ever seen, even suggesting it endangered Mateta’s life. The Football Association is investigating potential homophobic abuse aimed at Palace defender Ben Chilwell but is unable to act on the ‘let him die’ chants from Millwall fans, which were reciprocated by Crystal Palace supporters aimed at Millwall’s Camiel Neghli.
Millwall’s Response
Millwall head coach Alex Neil and chairman James Berylson checked on Mateta’s welfare immediately after the game, showing their concern and respect. The club also released a statement condemning the abuse directed at Roberts, who has faced significant online harassment. "The club are disgusted by abuse directed towards goalkeeper Liam Roberts following Saturday’s unfortunate collision with Jean-Philippe Mateta," the statement read. Millwall criticized media reports that suggested Roberts intended to harm Mateta, arguing that such claims contributed to a "character assassination of Liam" and "abhorrent online abuse." The club emphasized that Roberts apologized and that his intentions were never malicious.
The Mills Wall Community’s Support
The eighth-minute applause at The Den on Tuesday was a heartfelt gesture of support from Millwall fans, showing their solidarity with Roberts. However, the crowd’s reaction also included chants of "F*** the Daily Mail," reflecting their frustration with the media’s handling of the incident. The Daily Mail has been banned from attending Millwall matches and press conferences following their reporting on the event. The club’s decision underscores the tension between media coverage and the community’s perception of fairness and respect. Millwall fans, while supporting Roberts, also expressed their disgust at the chants from both sides, recognizing the need for a more positive and respectful atmosphere in football.
Mateta’s Recovery and Club Support
Jean-Philippe Mateta, who was conscious at the hospital on Saturday night, posted an update on Instagram, stating, "I’m doing well. I hope to be back very soon. And stronger than ever. Well done guys for the great job today. I love you." This positive message brought some comfort to his supporters and teammates. Manager Oliver Glasner echoed the club’s sentiments, saying, "I don’t want to see it any more. Just imagine if he hits his face straight, with all this power and the studs, it could have been the end of JP’s career." Glasner believed that while Roberts did not intend to injure Mateta, the risk of severe injury was too high, and the red card was justified.
Moving Forward
Millwall manager Alex Neil defended Roberts, emphasizing that his player mistimed the challenge and did not intend to hurt Mateta. Neil expressed hope for Mateta’s recovery and affirmed that Roberts will continue to have the club’s support. The incident has highlighted the need for a balanced and respectful approach to on-field incidents, both in terms of media coverage and fan behavior. As the football community continues to grapple with these issues, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of players while fostering a positive and inclusive environment for all.
