Poor Calum McFarlane has only been in interim charge for two games, but has had to answer a lot of “big picture” questions about Chelsea’s ownership, strategy, and tonight their disciplinary record.
Marc Cucurella was dismissed for pulling down Harry Wilson as the attacker raced through on goal, becoming just the latest in a string of players to see red for the Blues this season.
McFarlane defends Cucurella for red card
Marc Cucurella brings down Harry Wilson.
Marc Cucurella brings down Harry Wilson.
“There’s been a lot made of the red cards this season,” the coach explained.
“This red card happens in football. You get caught one-v-one. Harry Wilson is clever and he shows his quality. That red card is not a lack of discipline. The three yellows after is something we have to look at.”
Ok you can say that it’s not a lack of discipline, but it is. It’s more forgivable than a yellow for dissent or a red for a slap or something, but it’s still bad judgment. Just like Robert Sanchez against Man U or other examples of straight reds for non-violent acts, the players need to realise when it’s better to just let their opposition get a shot away than to sacrifice themselves to stop it.
Of course, defending in a way that doesn’t allow a straight punt from their goalkeeper to catch you cold would help too.
In other news…
McFarlane also used his press conference to praise Liam Delap, who impressed as a sub at the weekend then had a tall order tonight on a team with ten. He still managed to score his first Premier League goal.
There were chants aimed at Behdad Eghbali, who was in the stands at Craven Cottage, and you can see them here.
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Marc Cucurella brings down Harry Wilson.
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