How Manchester United were able to overturn Bruno Fernandes' red card against Tottenham

How Manchester United were able to overturn Bruno Fernandes' red card against Tottenham

Eric Munene 11:00 - 09.10.2024

Bruno Fernandes was given a three-match ban for his red card against Tottenham Hotspur, but it got succesfully overturned.

Manchester United successfully overturned Bruno Fernandes' direct red card from the Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur on September 29.

The club’s strategic appeal centered around compelling evidence, including expert analysis from Sky Sports pundits, which ultimately influenced the independent regulatory commission's decision.

Fernandes received a straight red card from referee Chris Kavanagh for a high tackle on James Maddison, a call that left players and fans divided.

Many believed the punishment was harsh, as replays suggested the contact was minimal and lacked any malicious intent.

To bolster their case, Manchester United assembled a detailed appeal, incorporating video clips and expert opinions that highlighted the ambiguity of the referee's decision.

Among the key pieces of evidence presented was a segment from Sky Sports' ‘Ref Watch’ program, featuring former referee Dermot Gallagher alongside ex-players Sue Smith and Dean Ashton.

Gallagher's analysis was particularly pivotal; he argued that Kavanagh did not have a clear view of the incident and suggested that the challenge was more of a "glancing blow" rather than a reckless foul deserving of a red card. He opined that a yellow card would have been a more appropriate punishment given the circumstances.

United also submitted additional video evidence, showcasing the incident from various angles, including both real-time footage and slow-motion replays.

The clips illustrated that contact was made with the side of Fernandes' boot on Maddison’s shin, rather than a more severe challenge that warranted expulsion from the game.

In their appeal, Manchester United included a letter from club secretary Rebecca Britain, articulating why they believed the red card was excessive.

This comprehensive approach resonated with the independent commission, which was split in its deliberations. Ultimately, the majority concluded that Kavanagh had made an "obvious error" in his judgment. They noted that Fernandes did not exhibit malice or excessive force during the tackle.

The commission's decision to overturn the red card by a 2:1 majority allowed Fernandes to participate in the subsequent match against Aston Villa, where the teams battled to a goalless draw.