Chelsea, West Brom charged after Bridge battle

January 16, 2016 | 10:11

(0) user say

Chelsea and West Bromwich Albion were charged by the Football Association on Friday for failing to control their players during Wednesday's 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea's goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois (R) clashes with West Bromwich Albion's midfielder James McClean during the English Premier League football match in London on Jan 13, 2016. (Photo: AFP/Ian Kington)

LONDON: Chelsea and West Bromwich Albion were charged by the Football Association on Friday (Jan 16) for failing to control their players during Wednesday's 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge.

An already feisty encounter boiled over following an off-the-ball trip by West Brom's Claudio Yacob, who had already been booked, on Chelsea striker Diego Costa.

The Baggies midfielder avoided a second yellow card and a dismissal before being promptly substituted by boss Tony Pulis.

Albion's James McClean also clashed with Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, while Costa was involved in several skirmishes with Jonas Olsson before reportedly punching a hole in the tunnel wall after the final whistle.

"Chelsea and West Bromwich Albion have both been charged for failing to ensure their players conducted themselves in an orderly fashion," a FA statement read.

"The charge relates to an incident which occurred in or around the 58th minute of their fixture on Wednesday, January 13, 2016.

"Both clubs have until 6pm on 20 January 2016 to respond to the charge."

Chelsea interim boss Guus Hiddink referred to the incident on Friday.

Hiddink felt Yacob should have been dismissed and was so frustrated with the performance of referee Anthony Taylor that he expressed his concerns to fourth official Jon Moss. He was taken aback by the reply.

"I told him: 'This is one of the worst referees of the Premier League I have experienced,'" Hiddink said.

"He said to me 'you haven't seen me yet', which was a beautiful remark I think."

AFP

What the stars mean:

★ Poor ★ ★ Promising ★★★ Good ★★★★ Very good ★★★★★ Exceptional