FORMER FIFA-listed referee Mark Halsey reckons Devante Cole could face retrospective action for an “absolutely clear red card” for his kick at Celtic’s Ismaila Soro.
The Motherwell striker was booked by match official Nick Welsh for his lash out at the Ivorian midfielder during the Hoops’ 2-1 win at Parkhead on Saturday.
CQN went through the flashpoint incident in a freeze frame sequence to highlight the moment Soro was left writhing in pain and holding his chest after the blow which occurred in the fading moments of the Premiership clash.
Following the SFA’s review system, the champions’ skipper Scott Brown faced a three-game ban after clash with Kilmarnock’s Aaron Tshibola last week, but the player was later cleared of all charges.
Albian Ajeti has been offered a two-match suspension after being charged with simulation in the same game when he went down following a challenge from keeper Colin Doyle who dived at his feet. Referee Kevin Clancy awarded a penalty-kick from which Odsonne Edouard scored his team’s second goal in their 4-0 victory at Rugby Park.
Celtic’s appeal against the decision will be heard tomorrow.
Looking at Cole’s wayward challenge on Soro, ex-top English Premier League match official Halsey believes the Fir Park forward should have been banished.
Halsey told MSN: “For me, I think it’s an absolutely clear red card.
“I think the assistant is right there, as well.
“Kicking or attempting to kick an opponent is an act of violent conduct and Celtic were absolutely spot on, it was a red card offence for violent conduct.
“It’ll be interesting to see in the coming days what happens with the Motherwell player.”
