WATCH NOW: Aidan Magee discusses the latest sport headlines February 27
BBC commentator Jonathan Pearce has condemned Millwall fans for chanting “let him die” after Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta was kicked in the face during an FA Cup fifth round match.
The shocking incident occurred in the opening minutes when Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts booted Mateta in the head.
The Palace forward was left requiring urgent medical attention on the pitch following the collision.
Roberts’ challenge was deemed serious foul play, resulting in immediate controversy at Selhurst Park.
Reuters
Following a VAR review, referee Michael Oliver showed Roberts a straight red card, reducing Millwall to 10 men.
Mateta remained stricken on the floor as medical staff attended to him.
During the lengthy break in play, Millwall’s travelling supporters could be heard chanting “let him die” towards the injured Mateta.
Pearce, who was commentating on the match for the BBC, immediately condemned the vile chants on air.
“Millwall fans are not endearing themselves with anyone with those chants about Mateta,” Pearce stated firmly during the broadcast.
Millwall fans chanted ‘let him die’ as Jean-Philippe Mateta was attended to by medics
Reuters
“I honestly hope Millwall get absolutely battered. Scummy little club,” added a third user.
Another commented: “Absolute scum.”
The incident overshadowed the early stages of the FA Cup fifth round tie, though Palace went on to take a two-goal lead before half-time through a Japhet Tanganga own goal and a Daniel Munoz strike.
