CORRECT CALL TO AWARD PENALTY FOR FRED’S FOUL
JON MOSS got it right when he awarded Arsenal a penalty at the Emirates yesterday. Manchester United midfielder Fred attempted to tackle with his wrong leg and caught Alexandre Lacazette on the thigh. At speed, this type of challenge usually results in a player being knocked off balance and going over, even if the contact is light. It was certainly a foul. Moss could have booked two United players earlier in the game but neither challenge deserved a red card, as some were advocating. Paul Pogba caught Aaron Ramsey around the neck with an arm but there was little force or malice. It was a yellow-card incident at worst. Ashley Young was a little more fortunate with his challenge on Laurent Koscielny. It was a borderline yellow/red case and, therefore, the referee should always go with the lesser sanction. The tackle was low and Young’s leg was bent, reducing the force. His studs were up, though, and he deserved a booking.