Millwall condemn abuse aimed at goalkeeper Roberts after Mateta horror tackle

Roberts was sent off just eight minutes into Saturday's FA Cup fifth-round tie, which Palace won 3-1, after catching Mateta's head with his boot as he raced out to clear the ball. Mateta received lengthy treatment, including oxygen, on the pitch before being stretchered to an ambulance and rushed to a hospital.

Roberts faced intense criticism following the tackle, with Millwall coming out in defence for their keeper. “The club are disgusted by abuse directed towards goalkeeper Liam Roberts following Saturday’s unfortunate collision with Jean-Philippe Mateta," the Championship side said in a statement.

“The reporting on the matter, as well as disgraceful suggestions made by certain news organisations and high-profile figures within the sport that Liam intended to harm Jean-Philippe, has contributed to the unwarranted character assassination of Liam and fuelled abhorrent online abuse towards him.

Saturday's visitors at Selhurst Park added: "No player at Millwall Football Club steps on to the pitch with the intent to harm another, and the club will continue to support Liam, who reached out to Jean-Philippe personally on Saturday evening with an apology which was accepted immediately."

Millwall spared a message of support for Mateta. "The club are pleased to hear positive updates from Jean-Philippe and wish him the best in his recovery," concluded the statement. Mateta required 25 stitches but was thankfully discharged from the hospital on Saturday evening. 

 

March 1, 2025