According to umpire Robert Jones, the “careless challenge” was sufficient grounds for Fulham’s opening goal to be granted against Chelsea. Young Josh King believed he preceded Fulham with a brilliantly executed finish from the counterattack.
However, the target was ruled out due to suspected Trevo Charova’s foul by Rodrigo Muniz. A statement from the Premier League read, “The reversal after the 22’var review, the referee reversed the original decision on the goal for Fulham.”
Following a review of the goals at Var Monitors, Judge Jones explained: “After the review, Fulham 9 commits an inadvertent challenge and engraving at the foot of Chelsea (the inaudible);
Fans opposed the verdict, and many turned to Twitter to express their views.
One supporter said, “The game is actually gone. What about Muniz’s “careless challenge”? How about PGMOL ruining our beautiful games every week?”
Another fan commented: “A careless challenge, the game is gone,” and further supporters replied, “A shocking decision! He said it was careless. It ruined the football.”
Former Chelsea player and TNT Sports expert Joe Cole opposed the decision to rule out King’s first Premier League goal.
“To disinfect football like that,” Cole said. “Kid, 18-year-old Fulham Lad, ran to the half-hearted line after scoring his first Premier League goal.
“To get rid of it from him for that? As I say, it’s not a ticklish contest. I don’t like this nipping.
“He stood at Chaloba’s ankles and there was contact. He understands the rules of the game. It wasn’t an inadvertent challenge, but just two professional soccer players went to the challenge, and we had a bit of contact.
King nearly created another goal for Fulham with his clever move just before halftime. He then pulled the ball back to Timothy Castagne.
King has launched all three Fulham league matches this season, which has proven to be a breakout campaign for the young midfielder.
