Cash emery
Credit: Imago
Keith Hackett
Fri 16 May 2025 22:22, UK
Keith Hackett has given his verdict on whether Aston Villa defender Matty Cash should have been booked during his side’s victory over Tottenham.
The former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA official exclusively told Football Insider that the referee had no choice but to issue the caution.
Villa were looking to boost their hopes of a Champions League spot, as they took on Spurs in their penultimate game of the season.
It was a scrappy first half, but Unai Emery’s side took control in the second period with goals from Ezri Konsa and Boubacar Kamara securing a 2-0 win.
The result comes amid speculation that Aston Villa are struggling to meet PSR regulations, and may need to sell players in the summer.
Tottenham’s attention turns to their Europa League final, where they will have a final chance to save their dismal campaign.
Ezri Konsa Aston Villa
Konsa scored the opening goal (Credit Imago)
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Cash goes into the book for simulation
As the game ticked past the halfway point of the first period, it had been a scrappy affair with little chance for either team to get into a rhythm.
Heung Min Son had gone close with a curling effort, which just went over the bar with Emiliano Martinez beaten.
Down the other end, Morgan Rogers thought he had give the home side the lead, but Antonin Kinsky made a superb fingertip save.
In the middle of the park, Cash was caught by Pape Matar Sarr, and the full back went to ground under the challenge.
While sitting on the floor, Cash waved an imaginary yellow card at the referee in the hopes of getting Sarr booked.
However, Bankes took exception to the full-back’s actions, and cautioned the Villa man instead, for what was the first booking of the game.
Matty Cash, Aston Villa
(Credit: Imago)
Keith Hackett – Bankes’clearly expressed his displeasure’
After being asked by Football Insider whether the right call had been made, the former referee said:
“When a player indicates that he wants his opponent cautioned by showing an imaginary card he is going to be the recipient of one.
“Referee Peter Bankes followed the laid down protocol by showing a yellow card and through his body language he clearly expressed his displeasure.”
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