Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna acknowledged that his team’s 4-0 defeat to Arsenal was compounded by a contentious red card decision. Leif Davis was shown a straight red card for a late challenge on Bukayo Saka, which McKenna initially didn’t think warranted a red card due to Davis’ lack of malicious intent.
However, upon reviewing the footage, McKenna understood why the referee made the call, citing the high challenge as the reason. “I can see why the referee gave it,” McKenna said. “And when it’s given, it’s never going to be overruled, so I don’t think we can have too many complaints.” McKenna’s comments suggest that while he may have disagreed with the decision initially, he accepts that it’s unlikely to be overturned.
The decision sparked outrage among the Portman Road crowd, who booed Saka’s every touch following the incident. The reaction from the Ipswich fans was intense, but McKenna’s measured response indicates that he’s trying to focus on the bigger picture rather than dwelling on the refereeing decision.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who had recently returned Saka from injury, agreed that the challenge was dangerous but didn’t believe it was intentional. “I don’t think it’s intentional, but it’s dangerous because he doesn’t see him coming and cannot react,” Arteta said. Saka was reportedly a bit sore but fine after the incident, which was a relief for Arteta and the Arsenal team.
The red card decision ultimately didn’t seem to affect Arsenal’s performance, as they went on to win the match 4-0. Ipswich Town, on the other hand, will look to regroup and learn from the experience, with McKenna’s comments suggesting that they’ll focus on improving their performance rather than disputing refereeing decisions.
