Mid-January, a heated clash between David Brooks and Marc Cucurella sparked controversy during Bournemouth’s game against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Howard Webb, chief of PGMOL, now reveals why Brooks did not receive a red card. This decision has ignited fierce debate among fans and pundits alike.
Chelsea dominated early when Cole Palmer struck a stunning goal within the opening 15 minutes. Bournemouth fought back when Justin Kluivert converted a penalty just five minutes after the restart. The match quickly evolved into a gripping contest.
Marc Cucurella led Chelsea’s attack from the left. In a decisive moment, David Brooks executed a challenge that pulled Cucurella down in his own half. The challenge even appeared to involve Brooks pulling Cucurella’s hair, prompting many to compare the action to a wrestling clothesline.
Referee Rob Jones did not catch the entire incident live. The VAR team quickly flagged potential violent conduct and sent him to the pitchside monitor. This review process played a crucial role in the final decision.
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After a lengthy review, Rob Jones issued a yellow card to David Brooks. He decided against a red card after closely examining the footage. VAR official Graham Scott even remarked, “it’s your gift,” which added further intrigue to the decision.
Howard Webb broke his silence on Match Officials Mic-d Up. He stressed that Rob Jones had not witnessed the incident live and had to rely on VAR guidance. Webb confirmed that the review focused on whether Brooks’ action warranted a red card.
Webb noted that VAR observed Brooks’ left arm coming around Cucurella. Officials described the move as similar to a clothesline but deemed it reckless rather than brutal. This analysis justified Jones’ choice to show a yellow card.
Despite the controversy, the match ended in a 2-2 draw following a late free kick by Reece James. Webb also addressed the red card incident involving Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly. Officials overturned that decision later, leaving the VAR process under intense scrutiny.