There was a brief VAR check in the first half of Sunderland’s win over Everton
Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher believes referee John Brooks right to show Everton midfielder Tim Iroegbunam for his challenge on Reinildo on Sunday.
Sunderland and Everton were drawing 0-0 in the first half when Iroegbunam won the ball back in midfield, but then took a heavy touch as he tried to break upfield. The midfielder was then late to his challenge on Reinildo, with the referee showing him a yellow. A brief VAR check followed but the officials advised the referee to stay with his initial decision.
Speaking on the Sky Sports News show Ref Watch, Gallagher said the foul itself wasn't worthy of a red card and the impact was not high and he had not led with his studs.
"I think ref John Brooks has got it absolutely right," he said.
"He's stretching but it's low and he catches him around the back of his calf. He doesn't catch him with his studs. It looks worse because of the way he goes up in the air. I think it's only a yellow card."
Former Premier League striker Jay Bothroyd agreed it was not a red as he didn't lead with his studs, and also criticised Reinildo for his reaction to the challenge.
"If his studs were up, he'd be in trouble," he said.
"But again, Reinildo - his reaction is embarrassing. I don't like seeing that kind of reaction from a player. If you're really hurt you're not doing that. He's trying to con the referee into getting the player sent off."
Though Everton took the lead through Merlin Rohl before half time, Sunderland went on to win 3-1. Gallagher added that Enzo Le Fée had avoided a yellow card for donning a Spiderman mask to celebrate his goal.
RLB’s verdict on Sunderland’s win over Everton
“I’m happy,” Le Bris said.
“Against a tough opponent in a tough place, the result went well. It wasn't easy - the first half we had control without the ability to threaten the opponent box really. We conceded a goal from the second phase of a set piece, it's a bit unlucky but we knew they were strong at this phase. During half-time we agreed it was important to take more risks, even if the game became a bit more unbalanced with transitions. It went well.
‘It's really important to mention our subs, they gave extra energy, more pressing and a bit more composure as well with the end product.”
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