“Drama at St James’ Park: Ex-Referee and Pundit Clash Over Fabian Schar’s Controversial Red Card”
Dermot Gallagher reviews contentious decisions in the Premier League after each round of matches for Sky Sports. The former top referee has now shared his perspective on an incident from the Newcastle vs. Southampton game.
During a key moment at St James’ Park, Newcastle United demonstrated remarkable determination to secure a clean sheet and all three points. In the 28th minute, Fabian Schar was shown a red card after being shoved from behind by Ben Brereton Diaz, despite the whistle having already blown to stop play. Schar quickly got back on his feet, and as the two players moved their heads toward each other, minimal contact occurred. However, Brereton Diaz dramatically fell to the ground, feigning injury.
Dermot Gallagher’s verdict:
“I don’t think referee Craig Pawson had any other option. Schar will probably reflect and realize ‘I didn’t need to do that’. The referee didn’t have much choice, but Brereton Diaz didn’t help matters with his exaggerated reaction. Schar did put his head toward Diaz, which led to the red card. It’s difficult to argue against the decision.”
However, former Liverpool and Blackburn defender Stephen Warnock disagrees:
“I don’t like it at all. It’s not a red card. There wasn’t enough aggression involved. Brereton Diaz also moved his head forward. What would happen if both players went down? Would both be sent off? Brereton Diaz’s reaction is embarrassing. It’s disgraceful to do that to a fellow professional. It’s pathetic.”