Manchester City will appeal Kompany red card, says Mancini

Jan 13, 2013 6:32:00 PM

After playing against 10 men for most of the match, the Premier League champions' win was ruined by a second-half sending off for their captain, which the manager feels was harsh

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has claimed the club will appeal Vincent Kompany's red card against Arsenal in Sunday's Premier League victory.

The City skipper was shown a straight red for an apparent two-footed lunge on Jack Wilshere, after referee Mike Dean had earlier dismissed Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny for hauling Edin Dzeko to the floor in the penalty area.


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The Premier League champions ran out comfortable 2-0 winners but the result was tarnished by Kompany's dismissal, and Mancini confirmed they will be asking the FA to overturn the result.

"This is not a red card, absolutely not," he told Sky Sports.

"He has one foot to take the ball, the other is left. I think that the referee made a mistake there.

"It was not a sending off for Vinnie because Vinnie took the ball with only one foot after anticipating the opponent."

Mancini admitted the earlier red card for Koscielny made things easier for his side, but was disappointed they were unable to extend their lead after the break.

"If you play with 10 players it is very difficult," he added.

"But we started the game very well, we played high, pressed high. After the sending off it was easier.

"Second half we were too soft and we missed three or four goals and after the game can be open."

The City boss stressed the importance of picking up a first win at Arsenal in 37 years as they closed the gap on league leaders Manchester United, who had earlier beaten Liverpool to move ten points clear.

"It's important because we know United is strong and probably they could win against Liverpool," he said.

"But the season is long and we need to work."