TELEVISION pundits leapt to the defence of red-carded defender Anthony Gerrard.
Leroy Rosenior, speaking on The Football League Show, said Gerrard’s challenge on Yannick Bolasie didn’t even merit a booking.
“It was a perfect tackle, perfectly timed,” said Rosenior.
“He (Gerrard) takes the ball, it’s not reckless, his foot stays on the ground and he takes it cleanly.
“Bolasie went over theatrically but he wasn’t hurt. It was a real shame for Gerrard.”
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On Sky TV, Andy Hinchcliffe agreed.
“His right foot didn’t seem too high and seemed to play the ball. I’m not sure why the referee has decided that’s a red card,” said Hinchcliffe.
“For me, it wasn’t too reckless.”
Sky’s Peter Beagrie said he felt the referee was ‘evening things up’ by dismissing Gerrard.
“The referee has a great view of it and that’s the worrying point,” said Beagrie.
“Anthony Gerrard has tackled through the back of the ball, his feet are not off the ground and he is in control. His vision is always on the ball and it’s just momentum which (eventually) brings his other foot through.
“It didn’t change anything, but I thought it was the referee evening things up.”
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