Hartlepool manager Kevin Phillips said he felt referee was right to send Rochdale's off

Hartlepool United manager Kevin Phillips said that, on first glance, he felt that referee Richard Eley was right to show Rochdale’s Kairo Mitchell a red card as Pools drew 1-1 with Dale on Easter Monday.

With the exception of Cian Hayes’ deep cross that went over the bar, the home team dominated the first few minutes of play. However, in the 37th minute, Mitchell received a straight red card, which turned the tide of the match in favour of the visitors.

The veteran defender Tom Parkes was left on the ground and appeared to be in discomfort after the Grenada international launched himself at him, but Rochdale were furious that the referee chose to substitute the former Notts County striker.

After Joe Grey scored a spectacular goal for Pools after 65 minutes, it appeared that the call had significantly changed the tide of play in Kevin Phillips’ and his team’s advantage.

But Rochdale fought back, and when Devante Rodney scored an equaliser in the 95th minute, both the bench and the crowd appeared to feel that justice had been served.

Even though Phillips acknowledged that his team had luck on their side, he refrained from implying that the referee erred and instead stated that, based on his observation during live play, the call was a red card.

“For me, from where I was, I haven’t watched it back but it looked a naughty one, it looked like a striker’s challenge,” he stated.

“His studs were up, and his leg was straight.

“The referee was present, and based on his quick reaction—he ran over and seemed to have made up his mind—you could tell.

“Their bench stated that it wasn’t a red, but I can’t truly judge it till I take a closer look.

“That’s the first time a player has been sent off since I’ve been here and we didn’t capitalise on it.”