Chelsea players went on to confront referee Taylor, arguing the ball deflected off Reece's thigh and not the arm
The FA has been probing the London club over chaotic scenes that marked their EPL meeting with Liverpool
The clash ended in a 1-1 draw, with Mohamed Salah cancelling out Kai Havertz's earlier opener

The Football Association (FA) has slapped Chelsea with a fine of £25,000 for failing to control their players during their tense Premier League meeting with Liverpool.

The clash which ended in a 1-1 draw at Anfield saw Reece James sent off after a handball on the goal line.

The decision by referee Anthony Taylor to hand the Chelsea defender marching orders sparked a protest from the Blues' playing unit.

Chelsea Slapped with Huge Fine for Mayhem During Tense Liverpool Clash — Chelsea charged by The FA: Photo by Simon Stacpoole.
Source: Getty Images

Incensed Chelsea squad felt the ball had deflected off Reece's thigh and not his arm as Taylor ruled.

However, Taylor stood his ground, with Reece left with no choice but to head for an early shower.

Daily Mail reports Chelsea admitted a charge of failing to control their players during the heated argument with the match official. A statement said:

"Chelsea FC has been fined £25,000 for two breaches of FA rule E20.1 which occurred during their Premier League fixture against Liverpool FC on Saturday 28 August 2021.

"The club admitted failing to ensure that its players conducted themselves in an orderly fashion during both the 48th minute of the first half and following the half-time whistle."

Kai Havertz had initially put the Blues ahead with a fantastic header before Mohammed Salah levelled matters from the spot.

Chelsea, even with the numerical deficiency managed to hold firm for a crucial point away from home.

Solskjaer wary of Chelsea in title race

Earlier, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer reportedly privately feels Chelsea are the only side that can challenge Man United for the Premier League title.

The Blues have been on an upward trajectory since the arrival of Thomas Tuchel back in January, helping the west Londoners win the Champions League last season and reaching the FA Cup final.

However, Solskjaer is understood to be desperate to guide United back to glory days following the club's decent summer window that saw them recruit top talent.