“I was surprised” – Former referee’s chief unhappy with important Chelsea decision

Chelsea suffered a crushing 3-0 defeat at Brighton on Friday night, a game in which they were clearly second-best in almost every department. However, the outcome might have taken a different turn had Enzo Fernández’s goal not been controversially disallowed.

The Blues struggled to make any real impact in the attacking third, highlighting the urgency of their search for reinforcements. One of their key targets, €90 million-rated Kaoru Mitoma, is also on Arsenal’s radar. Chelsea got a firsthand taste of his brilliance, as his dazzling footwork in the lead-up to his goal was lauded by Jamie Carragher, who likened it to Lionel Messi’s magic during live commentary.

Despite Chelsea’s loss, the most contentious moment of the night was Fernández’s disallowed goal. Former referees’ chief Keith Hackett was baffled by the decision, expressing disbelief over referee Chris Kavanagh’s call. Speaking to Football Insider, he remarked, “I was surprised that the Chelsea goal was ruled out for an alleged push. Given the level of holding, pulling, and shoving we see in the penalty area, there didn’t seem to be enough contact to warrant a foul.”

From Fernández’s perspective, frustration would be an understatement. While there was minimal contact with the Brighton defender, it hardly seemed significant enough to justify a free-kick. The ruling left Chelsea questioning what could have been, as they now find themselves slipping down the Premier League standings, with Bournemouth potentially leapfrogging them if they secure a win in the South Coast derby.

This controversial decision has reignited the debate over consistency in officiating, with many believing Chelsea were hard done by. Could this moment prove pivotal in their season? Only time will tell.