 |
| Alan Pardew believes Francis Coquelin deserved a red card |
CRYSTAL PALACE boss Alan Pardew believes Arsenal were 'lucky' to finish today's game at Selhurst Park with 11 men.
A stunning scissor kick by striker Olivier Giroud and a Damien Delaney own goal helped Arsenal to a 2-1 win.
But Pardew believes the Gunners were fortunate regarding midfielder Francis Coquelin, who picked up a yellow just before half-time and escaped a second booking despite persistent fouling.
Coquelin was eventually withdrawn by manager Arsene Wenger in the 64th minute.
The Palace boss said: "I said to Lee Mason 'listen. That tackle before half time is not a sending off at that point but that's his last chance, you know that'.
"He then makes the foul and he's (should be) off at that point. Arsene Wenger knew that and took him off. It's a decision Lee Mason needs to be braver on."
He added: "You have to argue they are lucky to have 11 players. Everyone knew in the stadium he should have gone."
Post a Comment Blogger Facebook Disqus