‘Too easy’ – Chelsea boss Maresca reacts to red card decision in Newcastle defeat | OneFootball

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca claimed that some refereeing decisions “too easy to make some decisions in some stadiums” after Nicolas Jackson received a red card at St James’ Park on Sunday.

The striker was initially booked for elbowing Sven Botman in the head, but it was upgraded to a red after referee John Brooks was instructed to review the incident at the pitchside monitor by the VAR.

Newcastle were already leading the contest following Sandro Tonali’s opener in the 2nd minute. Bruno Guimaraes sealed all three points with a deflected strike in the second half, boosting the Magpies’ hopes of qualifying for the Champions League.

Speaking to TNT Sports after the final whistle, Maresca described the match as a “difficult” one.

“It’s already difficult 11 v 11 in this stadium, against this team so playing an hour with 10 players is not easy,” the Italian said.

“But second half the team showed a lot of spirit, togetherness and it’s from there we need to keep the same feeling and energy for Friday’s game.”

Chelsea boss Maresca reacts to Jackson red card vs Newcastle

Maresca suggested the decision to send Jackson off was influenced by the home crowd.

“The only thing I can say is that sometimes it is too easy to make some decisions in some stadiums. But if the referee says it’s a red, it’s a red.

“Sometimes you get the feeling that some decisions are from the noise.”

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe, meanwhile, felt the red card was warranted. “It was a big moment,” he said.

“For me, it was a red card but I haven’t seen it again, I’m going with my initial reaction.

“I’m sure he hasn’t meant to elbow the way he has but it doesn’t look great.”

The result sees Newcastle move up into third place in the Premier League table, three points clear of Chelsea in fifth.

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