During Arsenal’s win over Tottenham, Jurrien Timber avoided a red card for a tough challenge on Pedro Porro, which has sparked some debate.
According to former Premier League referee Mark Halsey, the decision by referee Jarred Gillett to issue only a yellow card was a cautious choice.
The Controversial Tackle
In the first half, Timber’s tackle on Porro raised eyebrows as he caught the Tottenham player on the ankle with his studs, going over the ball.
This type of challenge was reminiscent of the one that led to Curtis Jones’ red card last season for Liverpool.
Despite the severity of Timber’s challenge, Gillett and VAR official Stuart Attwell decided a yellow card was sufficient.
Referee’s Cautious Approach
Mark Halsey, speaking to The Sun, commented that Gillett opted for the ‘safe bet’ by issuing a yellow card for what he deemed a reckless challenge.
Halsey explained the criteria: a careless challenge results in a free kick with no card, a reckless one leads to a free kick and a yellow card, and a challenge that endangers a player’s safety should be punished with a red card.
He believed the decision was accurate, as Timber’s tackle did not meet the threshold for serious foul play.
Post-Tackle Reactions and Additional Disputes
The tackle led to a scuffle between players from both teams, with Tottenham’s goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario getting booked for his role in the altercation.
Some felt Timber deserved a second yellow card for grabbing the keeper in response, but Halsey defended Timber’s actions, stating he was simply trying to protect himself and wasn’t the aggressor.
Comparisons with Previous Incidents
There was noticeable confusion regarding consistency, especially in light of Curtis Jones’ red card against Tottenham last season.
Gary Neville highlighted the difference, noting that Jones’ challenge was more severe as he went over the ball completely.
Arsenal Secures Victory
Despite the controversy, Arsenal secured a 1-0 victory in the north London derby with Gabriel scoring the decisive goal.