The Swans suffered a torrid evening against Championship leaders Fulham at the Swansea dot com stadium last night, with the game effectively over as a contest after Ryan Manning’s sending off just minutes before half-time.
The Irishman was shown a straight red card by Australian official Jarred Gillett for his challenge on Harry Wilson, which left the Welshman writhing around on the floor.
Initial reactions suggest that the decision was harsh, as referee Gillett almost immediately showed the red card. However, tv replays appear to suggest that the official had got it right, with Manning’s sliding in studs up and his foot clearly moving in an upwards direction.
Russell Martin confirmed that the club will appeal the sending off, which if not overturned, will see the defender face a four match ban, having received two red cards this season already.
Even Fulham boss, Marco Silva agreed with Martin, saying in his post match interview – “If you ask me if I thought it was a red card at the time, I have to say no. After seeing Harry Wilson’s leg, I started to think in a different way”.
Prior to the sending off, the Swans had given a good account of themselves against a side that had scored 84 goals in 34 games and not lost an away league game since the beginning of October.
One bright spot for the Swans, was Joel Piroe’s 14th Championship goal of the season on 75 minutes, as the Dutchman continues his impressive campaign.
After the defeat, Russell Martin spoke about the significance of the sending off and the impact it had on the game as a spectacle.
Russell Martin Post-Match Press Conference after Fulham Defeat
Swansea City v Fulham Extended Highlights
The Swans now travel to Blackpool on Saturday, hoping for a return to winning ways after the recent improvement in form prior to the Fulham game.