AFC Bournemouth failed to hold on after being reduced to 10 men following Evanilson’s red card as they drew 1-1 against Manchester United.
Andoni Iraola and Co seemed like they were set for a routine win after Antoine Semenyo’s opening goal in the first half as Rasmus Hojlund’s late equaliser marred their hopes of clinching three points.
But as the game entered a bill of a lull, Evanilson’s attempt to win the ball off Noussair Mazraoui in the 70th minute was deemed worthy of a red card.
Alan Smith has given his views on whether Evanilson really merited being sent off against Manchester United.
Alan Smith left “dumbfounded” by Evanilson red card during Bournemouth vs Man United
Alan Smith admitted that he was “dumbfounded” to see Bournemouth striker Evanilson be given a red card against Manchester United.
Evanilson merely slipped, according to Alan Smith and yet, Bournemouth were punished after his attempt to win the ball off Manchester United full-back Noussair Mazraoui.
The former Arsenal goalscorer told Sky Sports: “I’m a bit dumfounded by that one. I know it ends up being a dangerous challenge but it’s a total accident. If you do slip in that fashion, you can’t help it.”
Much like Alan Smith, even Francis Benali felt Bournemouth’s Evanilson merely slipped and his challenge was merely accidental against Manchester United.
Benali said via BBC Sport: “There has been numerous players slipping in various areas of the pitch. There is contact, but it is a tough one to call.”
How Andoni Iraola reacted to Evanilson red card vs Man United
BBC Journalist Simon Stone reported that Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola did not agree with the decision to hand Evanilson a red card against Manchester United and the home fans also agreed with Alan Smith.
“Andoni Iraola doesn’t agree and neither do his coaches but I suspect they wouldn’t be happy if their player was on the wrong end of one of those either.”
“Adam Smith and a member of the Bournemouth coaching staff are booked for their protests. The home fans are understandably not happy.”
