Bukayo Saka made a significant impact in Arsenal’s recent match against Wolverhampton Wanderers, achieving double assists in the Fantasy Premier League (FPL) despite the goals being classified as own goals. This match, held during Gameweek 16, ended with Arsenal winning 2-1.
Saka’s Key Contributions
In this exciting encounter, Saka recorded the third and fourth assists of his current FPL season. The first assist came from a perfectly executed corner kick. Saka’s inswinging delivery led to an attempt from Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, hitting the post and consequently going into the net off Johnstone himself.
Assist Rules Explained
- The assist was credited to Saka following a review.
- Only one defensive touch, Johnstone’s attempted clearance, occurred before the goal.
- New rules allow for an assist if an own goal results from a deflected pass with a single defensive touch.
These updated assist rules, which were introduced in the 2025/26 season, aim to simplify how assists are awarded for own goals. Unlike previous regulations, which required a direct pass leading to the own goal, the new standards permit one defensive touch prior to the goal-scoring event.
The second assist credited to Saka came about with the involvement of Wolves defender Yerson Mosquera. Saka’s cross was unfortunately directed into the net by Mosquera, with no other player touching the ball before it crossed the line.
Understanding the Rules Further
According to the assist rules:
- A player is awarded an assist if they make the final touch before an own goal.
- This touch can be categorized as a pass, an accidental touch, or a shot.
The new rules were first put into practice during Gameweek 10, in a match where Fulham’s Ryan Sessegnon was also credited with an assist for an own goal involving Johnstone and Mosquera.
As the Premier League evolves, these changes to assist regulations reflect a more straightforward approach to recognizing players’ contributions during matches.
