‘Absolute joke’ – Dominic Calvert-Lewin shown controversial red card as Everton force FA Cup replay against Crystal Palace
Published: 22:09, 4 Jan 2024Updated: 22:25, 4 Jan 2024Dominic Calvert-Lewin received the first red card of his career in controversial fashion in Everton’s FA Cup third round clash at Crystal Palace.
In what was an uneventful 0-0 draw at Selhurst Park on Thursday night, the England international’s second half dismissal has proved to be the biggest talking point.
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Calvert-Lewin was sent off for this foul on Palace defender Nathaniel ClyneCredit: ITV
Following VAR intervention, the 26-year-old was given a straight red card for a studs-up challenge on Nathaniel Clyne in the 76th minute.
Replays showed that there wasn’t a great deal of contact, with the ex-Sheffield United striker’s boot glancing off of the right-back’s shin.
But referee Chris Kavanagh deemed the challenge as reckless, with Calvert-Lewin given his marching orders – much to the shock of former Arsenal and Chelsea star Lianne Sanderson.
Speaking on talkSPORT commentary, she said: “Absolute joke! Sorry, but I think that is a joke, I really do.
“I don’t think that is a red card at all, and none of the players out there think it is either!
“Look at them look at the reaction of the players, they don’t even know what to do, it’s a joke.”
Sanderson added: “That’s not a red card, and I feel for Dominic Calvert-Lewin, because he can’t seem to buy any type of luck.
“That is just not a red card, some people will disagree. I don’t actually think anybody here thinks it was a red card.”
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It is the first red card of the Toffees striker’s careerCredit: ITV
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Calvert-Lewin will now miss three games due to suspensionCredit: AFP
Having his say, Sam Matterface stated: “I understand the flexing of the foot, the fact that the studs are showing, he’s in danger of causing himself a problem with VAR.
“But I just don’t think there was enough force.”
Interjecting, Sanderson concluded: “It wasn’t malicious. When you slow everything down, it always seems a lot worse.”
As for Calvert-Lewin’s teammate Seamus Coleman, he told ITV Sport: “When they slow it down, it’s obviously going to look that bit worse.
“From where I was it’s a great tackle. I’ve seen the replay after. I don’t know who the fingers need to be pointed at.
“As soon as the ref goes over there [to the pitchside monitor] you know that he’s going to give a red card.
“It’s been a big talking point and for me that’s not a red card. It’s another maybe decision that goes against us that maybe won’t get talked about as much.”
Meanwhile Everton boss Sean Dyche revealed that he will consider appealing the red card.
Unfortunately for Palace, they didn’t make the most of their extra man, with the two teams barely threatening the opposing goalkeeper.
They will now play in a replay at Goodison Park for a place in the fourth round.
