St Mirren’s Alan Power received a red card for his aggressive tackle on David Turnbull last weekend. The Buddies Irish midfielder flew into the challenge and, with studs on show, went over the top of the ball before connecting with Turnbull’s ankle. Fortunately, the Celtic player avoided injury but it was certainly a shocking challenge that has no place in the game.
Despite the nature of the tackle, not all pundits in Scotland seemed convinced that a red card was necessary. Indeed, Michael Stewart was among those suggesting that Power could have escaped with a booking. However, former English Premier League whistler Keith Hackett told Football Insider that he absolutely agrees with the decision made by Willie Collum.
Watching the footage back, Hackett said: “Oh dear, that is a clear red card challenge. It’s serious foul play. The referee is in a brilliant position to make the correct decision. Well done the referee.
“If a player comes in with both feet or one foot off the ground he’s out of control. If he’s showing the studs the ball cannot be used as an excuse. Even if he took the ball and man it’s a red card.
“The referee’s given the red card and I am 100% supporting the referee. The player’s ignored the ball and fulfilled the requirements of serious foul play.”
