Sky Sports pundit Gareth Evans described the red card given to Sunderland’s Trai Hume as “harsh” during the team’s Championship match against Bristol City. Hume was sent off seven minutes into the game after being adjudged to have tripped Bristol City forward Nahki Wells as he looked to break through on goal.
Evans, speaking from the commentary box, said that while the contact between Hume and Wells warranted a foul, the circumstances were unfortunate. He felt that Hume didn’t intentionally try to get in Wells’ way and was actually trying to get out of the way when contact was made.
Evans acknowledged that by the letter of the law, Hume’s actions could be considered a sending-off offense. However, he questioned whether the referee’s decision was justified, given the early stage of the game and the importance of the match.
The pundit also noted that Wells was bearing down on goal and might have scored if not for the contact. Despite this, Evans still believed the decision was harsh and wondered if the referee might regret it later.
Sunderland went on to win the match 1-0, with Eliezer Mayenda scoring a stunning solo goal just after the half-hour mark. The win was significant for the Black Cats, who had to adapt to Hume’s early departure by reverting to a more defensive shape.
