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There was confusion when an indirect free kick was taken outside the area during Chelsea’s clash with Man City on Sunday.
Citizens goalkeeper Zack Steffen, who was making his Premier League debut with Ederson self-isolated at home, curiously received a backward pass from Rodri inside his own box in the fifth minute.
Sky sports
Steffen decided to collect the ball in his own box
The rules state that a collected backward pass is punishable by an indirect free kick from the position where the handling occurred.
However, referee Anthony Taylor seemed to forget that rule, along with the Chelsea players, apparently, as the resulting set piece was taken OUT of the box.
Sky sports
Chelsea’s free kick was launched outside the area
Mason Mount passed the ball to Hakim Ziyech, whose shot was blocked by City players who rushed in.
That was Chelsea’s best opportunity in the first half when City rampaged at Stamford Bridge.
Pep Guardiola’s men were quick to take a three-goal lead thanks to goals from Ilkay Gundogan, Phil Foden and Kevin De Bruyne in the 34th minute.
City’s performance was even more impressive considering they didn’t have five first-team players due to positive coronavirus tests.
Kyle Walker, Gabriel Jesus and Eric Garcia were the known absentees, while the other two players remain unknown.
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