Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts has been handed a six-match ban for his dangerous challenge on Jean-Philippe Mateta during their FA Cup clash with Crystal Palace.
The 30-year-old received a red card in the 6th minute of the match after catching Mateta with a high boot, which resulted in the striker being hospitalized and requiring 25 stitches to a severe laceration on his left ear.
On Wednesday, the FA pushed for a stricter punishment, arguing that the standard three-match ban for serious foul play was insufficient.
A statement from the FA’s website on Friday confirmed the decision:
“An independent Regulatory Commission has upheld The FA’s claim to increase the suspension of Millwall’s Liam Roberts.
The goalkeeper was sent off on Saturday, 1st March, for serious foul play during the Emirates FA Cup tie against Crystal Palace. The FA argued that the standard punishment for this offence was clearly insufficient. Following a hearing, the Regulatory Commission upheld The FA’s claim, set aside the standard three-match punishment, and instead imposed a six-match ban.”
Roberts will now be unavailable for Millwall’s next six games, dealing a significant blow to the club as they continue their campaign.
