Former Ref On Ritchie Tackle

Last updated : 11 September 2017 By Footy Mad - Editor

Dermot Gallagher admits the decision not to send off Matt Ritchie is indefensible and referees have left themselves open to criticism, especially after the Sadio Mane red card incident.

Image result for Newcastle ritchie shirtFormer top-flight official Gallagher has been in the Sky Sports News studio to give his view on two similar incidents that resulted in two different decisions.

DERMOT SAYS: His boot is five or six foot in the air and he's leading with his studs at speed. I fully accept he's going for the ball but the law doesn't factor that in. He's seriously endangered his opponent. We have to forget the consequences - he doesn't have to put him in hospital to seriously endanger the opponent.

SCENARIO: The Newcastle man only picks up a yellow card for a similarly high challenge on Alfie Mawson.

DERMOT'S VERDICT: Wrong decision.

DERMOT SAYS: I would say it's a red card. I was surprised, especially after it came 24 hours after the Mane incident. The only difference between the two challenges is the blood and the outcome. I fully endorse what Moss has done, but I can't defend Mike Jones for this decision. The law doesn't say the player has to have sustained an injury.