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Hemed hits winner but is accused of trampling on Toon’s Yedlin
BRIGHTON match-winner Tomer Hemed faces a three-match ban for stamping on Newcastle’s DeAndre Yedlin.
Toon boss Rafa Benitez was furious with referee Andre Marriner for allowing Hemed’s 50th-minute goal, claiming there was a foul in the build-up.
But the Israel star, Albion’s only fit striker, also escaped punishment for his challenge on Yedlin late in the game.
“I felt something on my calf,” said the Magpies full-back. “I didn’t see anything. Whether it was accidental or not doesn’t really matter now but
I’m sure whoever is on the committee that punishes that sort of thing will figure it out.” And Sky Sports pundit Graeme Souness said: “I think that might come back to bite him.”
Hemed apologised, saying: “It was by accident. I didn’t try to do anything. If I hurt him then I’m sorry.”
The FA will await Marriner’s report before deciding whether to take retrospective action. But Brighton boss Chris Hughton said: “My absolute impression was there was no intention, particularly knowing the player as I do.”
Benitez (left) insisted the goal should have been chalked off for a push by Bruno on Chancel Mbemba.
‘I’m disappointed because the goal is a clear foul,” he said. “We didn’t defend well, but there’s a push, it was very clear.”