Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his frustration over the lack of consistency in officiating after Declan Rice was sent off during Arsenal’s match against Brighton.
Arteta suggested that similar infractions by Brighton players went unpunished.
Rice received a second yellow card from referee Chris Kavanagh early in the second half, with the Premier League later confirming it was for delaying the restart of play.
At the time of the incident, Arsenal were leading 1-0, but Joao Pedro’s goal later in the match secured a point for the visitors.
The game was notable for several reasons: it marked Rice’s first career red card, Arsenal’s first goal conceded this season, and the first time the Gunners have dropped points in the new campaign.
As a result of the red card, Rice will be suspended for the North London Derby, which follows the international break.
Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Mikel Arteta voiced his displeasure, stating that his team did not receive a comprehensive explanation for the red card, a situation he says is all too common.
“If it [bookings for delaying the restart] happens throughout the game in a consistent way it is fine but it didn’t. It is the inconsistency,” Arteta said.
When asked about an explanation, he said: “None, like always.”
“We started the game really well,” he said.
“We scored the goal, 1-0.
“We started the second half really good but then there is the decision that changes the game completely.”
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler, meanwhile said: “First of all he shoots the ball away so it is a clear yellow card, it changes the momentum of the game.
“In the end you are one man plus so you always want to win the game.
“We had chances on our side but Arsenal also had two big chances.”
Despite losing their 100 percent record, 10-man Arsenal remain unbeaten in the league.
Kai Havertz gave them a halftime lead, but Joao Pedro equalized an hour into the match.
Both teams had late opportunities to secure a winner.
Havertz was denied by a sharp save from Bart Verbruggen, while Brighton’s record signing Georginio Rutter missed a late header.
The 1-1 draw leaves both teams with seven points from a possible nine.
The international break provides Arsenal and Brighton with an opportunity to recover from their recent match.
However, Arsenal’s Declan Rice will miss the North London Derby due to a one-match ban when the Premier League resumes.
Brighton’s first game back is at home against newly promoted Ipswich on September 14.
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