Cristian Romero and Destiny Udogie were both sent off in a tumultuous derby that saw five goals disallowed and nine VAR reviews.
Former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg praised the officiating of Tottenham‘s game against Chelsea, but admitted that one decision was incorrect.
Spurs’ unbeaten start to the season came to an end when Cristian Romero and Destiny Udogie were both sent off in a 4-1 loss that included five disallowed goals and nine VAR reviews.
Romero was sent off in the first half, shortly after Udogie escaped with a yellow card for a heavy challenge on Raheem Sterling. For a second bookable offence, the left-back joined the Argentine for an early bath in the second half.
While Clattenburg praised Michael Oliver, the assistant referees, and those in charge of VAR, he believes Udogie should have been dismissed sooner.
“Destiny Udogie was lucky for two reasons, Clatternburg told the Daily Mail.”One, because Raheem Sterling drew his leg away from a potentially serious injury.
“Two, because Brooks did not inform Oliver that this challenge deserved a red. Udogie was in the air, leading with two feet and studs showing.”
“This was mayhem, like some sort of sequel to ‘The Battle of the Bridge’ in 2016,” he added. That was the most difficult match I’d ever had to referee, and this game was equally difficult for the officiating team to manage.
“Crunching challenges, petulant kicks, penalty claims, disallowed goals, potential elbows – and that was just in the first half!”
“It was the type of contest that demanded the best performance from the officiating crew.” Referee Michael Oliver and VAR John Brooks had to apply the laws while also managing the spectacle, and they were put to the test here.”
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