Calvert-Lewin's Red in Everton vs. Crystal Palace FA Cup Clash

 Calvert-Lewin's Red in Everton vs. Crystal Palace FA Cup Clash

Nathaniel Clyne of Crystal Palace is challenged by Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Jack Harrison of Everton, leading to a red card for Dominic Calvert-Lewin, during the Emirates FA Cup Third Round match between Crystal Palace and Everton at Selhurst Park on January 04, 2024 in London, England(Image-Getty)

Crystal Palace and Everton played to a goalless draw at Selhurst Park, resulting in a FA Cup third-round replay after an eventful match that saw Everton's Dominic Calvert-Lewin receive a red card in the 79th minute.

The turning point occurred when Calvert-Lewin, the 26-year-old Everton striker, was shown a straight red card for a studs-up challenge on Nathaniel Clyne after a VAR review. Referee Chris Kavanagh, upon viewing the footage, deemed it necessary to brandish the red card, leaving Everton with ten men.

Despite the rainy conditions in south London, both managers, Roy Hodgson and Sean Dyche, fielded strong teams. The match featured decent goal-scoring chances, but neither side could break the deadlock, leading to a stalemate.

Everton's best opportunity came from a first-half corner by James Garner that nearly sneaked in at the near post, but Crystal Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson made a quick reaction to clear with his feet. Following Calvert-Lewin's dismissal, Palace threatened with crosses and set-pieces, with forward Eberechi Eze forcing a remarkable save from Everton goalkeeper Joao Virginia in stoppage time.

However, despite the one-man advantage, Crystal Palace failed to capitalize on their opportunities. After a prolonged stoppage time of nine minutes, the referee blew the whistle, sending the tie to a replay at Goodison Park.

Everton captain Seamus Coleman expressed frustration over Calvert-Lewin's first career red card, stating, "From where I was, it's a great tackle. I've seen the replay afterwards. I don't know who the fingers need to be pointed at, (but) as soon as the ref goes over there, you know he's going to give a red card."

Manager Sean Dyche hinted at a potential appeal against the red card, while Roy Hodgson struggled to comprehend the situation, stating, "I don't know if I can understand these things these days. I'm not prepared to say definitely it was or definitely it wasn't; it's a modern-day situation."