Former referee: 'Brkic red card was a mistake'

'Brkic red card was a mistake,' says ex referee Tombolini

Sep 4, 2012 8:45:00 PM

The former official has shared his interpretation of the most controversial decision in the opening week of the Serie A season involving the Udinese stopper

EXCLUSIVE

by Sergio Stanco

Former Serie A referee Daniele Tombolini believes Udinese goalkeeper Zeljko Brkic should not have been sent off following an incident in the 4-1 defeat to Juventus.

The Zebrette keeper was given his marching orders following a tangle with Juve forward Sebastien Giovinco, resulting in his dismissal and the awarding of a penalty to the visitors.

"Of course it was a penalty," explained Tombolini.

"Giovinco, just inside the area, tries to outjump Brkic, while Danilo gives him a push which made him lose hise balance when going into the Udinese goalkeeper, therefore it was a clear penalty for pushing from the Brazilian.

"It wasn't a sending off, though, because Giovinco didn't have possession of the ball, it wasn't certain to be a clear chance on goal as the attempted lob was into the path of two defenders, Friulu Domizzi and Danilo."

As it was the 26-year-old was given his marching orders by referee Paolo Valeri, but Tombolini felt the post match controversy could well have been avoided.

"He had to give the penalty and warn Danilo, that's all." he reasoned.

"With this decision, there would not have been any controversy. In this specific case, I do not think there are great doubts as to interpretation according to current rules."

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