Jay Dasilva, a Coventry defender, was properly sent off following a terrible tackle on Southampton’s Welington during Saturday’s match at St Mary’s.
Former PGMOL chairman Keith Hackett has exclusively told Football Insider that referee Adam Herczeg made the proper judgment since the Sky Blues star’s challenge satisfied the conditions for a sending out.
Coventry have completely dominated the Championship this season under Frank Lampard, and they travel to the south coast on Saturday hoping to extend their lead at the top of the table.
The Sky Blues dominated the first half, and Ephron Mason-Clark gave them the lead right before halftime.
Southampton centre-back Nathan Wood tied the score in the 56th minute as the Saints pushed for victory, but the game ended 1-1, with Coventry having to play practically the whole second half with ten men.
Dasilva was sent off for a reckless tackle on Welington just after the break. He lunged to intercept Flynn Downes’ poor ball.
Match referee Herczeg promptly issued the red card, with replays revealing that the Coventry defender did catch his opponent with his studs up.
A straight red card for such a challenge generally results in a three-game punishment, so the Wales international will miss Coventry’s forthcoming matches against Swansea City, Ipswich Town, and Charlton Athletic.
Hackett defends’spot on’ referee after brutal Dasilva tackle.
A major riot broke out at the end of the game after an ill-tempered clash between two teams determined to play in the Premier League next season at all costs.
Coventry were fined for their players’ altercation with Hull City in August, and the same could happen again following this confrontation, adding to their Dasilva difficulties.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider on the decision to send Dasilva off against Southampton, Hackett said: “The referee got it right. This tackle is significant foul play, and a red card is the appropriate response.”
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