GRAHAM POLL

the official line

WHEN the champions lose at home, the referee faces scrutiny. When he dismisses two of their players that scrutiny is magnified, so it is credit to Craig Pawson that his decisions were widely accepted. Gary Cahill lunged in, leading with his studs at pace and catching Steven Defour. Players know this type of challenge is dangerous and Pawson did not hesitate in showing a red card (left). Just two minutes later, Cesc Fabregas sarcastically applauded the referee — another act players know results in a yellow card. Fabregas then committed a reckless challenge, resulting in his second yellow card.