Robin Olsen was public enemy number one at Selhurst Park on Tuesday night after refusing to allow a kids penalty shootout to take place.
The Aston Villa goalkeeper was warming up during the break prior to replacing Emiliano Martinez for the second half in his side’s 4-1 defeat at Crystal Palace.
Having not played in the Premier League since the 3-0 defeat at Chelsea on December 1, Olsen was keen to leave no stone unturned in his preparations.
The 35-year-old was taking part in a catching drill at the Whitehorse Lane end just as Palace staff were looking to get on with their usual half-time penalty shootout.
And despite the host’s attempts for Olsen to depart the goal, the 35-year-old simply ignored his pleas and refused to budge.
He simply waved for crosses to come into his six-yard box from either channel – much to the dismay of the Palace staff member and the furious fans.
Boos and jeers were loudly aimed at the 75-cap Sweden international, with supporters even chanting ‘w*****’ in unison at the shot-stopper.
Even Palace’s mascot Pete the Eagle was left seemingly furious as he stared Olsen down as he walked across the pitch.
A Villa coach then appeared to argue with the host to move out of the way, who in turn simply apologised to the fans and the kids.
He said on the mic: “I’m really sorry, this is the first time it has ever happened.”
Before adding: “Palace fans, I genuinely don’t know what to say.”
While Olsen had every right in warming up as he prepared to make his introduction, the anger stemmed as he was getting ready in the opposite end of where he would be playing.
Thankfully for the children patiently waiting, the shootout was moved to the Holmesdale Road Stand.
Olsen’s appearance off the bench couldn’t have got off to a better start after he had a huge role in Morgan Rogers’ 52nd minute equaliser.
He sent a long ball up towards Ollie Watkins, who in turn headed behind for Rogers, with the midfielder subsequently slotting home to make it 1-1.
But it was ultimately Palace – and their fans – who had the last laugh as Olsen conceded three goals as Villa collapsed in south London.
Though Olsen, who was booed by supporters throughout the second period, couldn’t be blamed for any of the goals.
And Palace, who have jumped up into 12th spot and denied Villa the chance to go fifth, were quick to rub salt in the wounds of Olsen.
Taking to X, Palace shared an image of Pete the Eagle staring Olsen down as he made his way past him.
Captioning the post, they simply said: “There was only one winner tonight.”
