Sports Letters: Cards favour the poorer players
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir: To their credit, some referees avoid whistling at the first sign of foul play, rather waiting to see if any advantage can occur. But, there comes a point during the foul, when this advantage can not only become a disadvantage, but can favour the offender. During the recent Manchester United v Arsenal game, Roy Keane tugged Patrick Vieira's shirt, while at the same time attempting to chop him down.
Vieira, to his credit did not react at first, until the provocation was too much, at which point he raised his arm. Although it was clear who the perpetrator of the foul was, both players received the same card.
This is just one incident in a long line where the perpetrator of the offence received the same punishment as the recipient.
Taken to the extreme, a poor player can kick a talented player, and draw a reaction. Both players are then sent off, and the advantage favours the offending team.
Obviously this is extreme, but how different are many other examples week-in week-out in the Premiership?
GARY JACOB
St Catherine's College, Oxford
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments