Cardiff Appeal Hasselbaink Red Card

Cardiff City have confirmed they will be appealing against the straight red card shown to veteran striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink in the game against Colchester United.


Hasselbaink went in for a bouncing ball after defender Adam Virgo failed to clear. Jimmy's foot was undoubtedly high, and he made contact with U's keeper Dean Gerken's head. The referee showed a straight red for violent conduct - infuriating Dave Jones.


Cardiff's reaction was strong and predictable - they believe Hasselbaink was entitled even expected to challenge. Colchester United boss Geraint Williams was of a similar view and immediately jumped to Hasselbaink's defence:


"It was a harsh decision to send Hasselbaink off."

"There was nothing malicious in the challenge. It was a ball he had to challenge for."

"The goalkeeper took a blow to the head, but that happens in football."


Credit to Williams for his actions, and also to his side who produced a battling and positive performance that belies their league position. If they produced that football consistently, they would be sitting at the other end of the table.


If the appeals fails, Hasselbaink will be suspended for three league games but would be available for the semi-final showdown against Barnsley.