Jefferson Lerma Left With Broken Nose After Being "Punched" By Joachim Andersen

Crystal Palace defender Joachim Andersen hit Jefferson Lerma in the face with a closed fist but his 'punch' did not result in a red card after a VAR review.

Bournemouth manager Gary O'Neill was baffled after Crystal Palace defender Joachim Andersen received no punishment for appearing to hit Jefferson Lerma with a closed fist on Saturday.

The incident occurred during the first half of Palace's 2-0 win at Selhurst Park when the score was still 0-0.

Lerma fell to the ground inside a packed penalty area as Bournemouth were defending a corner kick.

Replays showed that Lerma had been struck in the face by Andersen but a VAR review did not result in a red card for the Danish center-back.

Crystal Palace defender Joachim Andersen (no.16) pictured striking Bournemouth midfielder Jefferson Lerma in the face with a clenched fist during Saturday's Premier League game at Selhurst Park / Sky Sports

Speaking to reporters after the game, O'Neill said: "Andersen punched Lerma in the face, Jefferson has a broken nose."

He added: "It's difficult on the pitch to see that, but I have no idea how VAR can give it as 'check complete'.

"He was in pain, his nose is broken, it was a strange incident. But there are other things I need to talk about."

Eberechi Eze scored both of Saturday's goals as Palace's victory took them to 43 points - level with London rivals Chelsea in the Premier League table.

Highlights: Crystal Palace 2-0 Bournemouth