According to Cardiff City’s head coach Brian Barry-Murphy, Gabriel Osho’s red card in the match against Wycombe Wanderers should have resulted in only a yellow card.
In Tuesday’s League One clash, Cardiff was in control when centre-back Osho was dismissed for a reckless challenge on Ewan Henderson just before half-time.
Despite the sending-off, Cardiff maintained their dominance until they conceded two late goals to the visitors.
Barry-Murphy reflected, “I believed we were managing the game well. The red card undoubtedly altered the dynamics, but the players put in an extraordinary effort.”
He further stated, “I thought Gabriel’s tackle was executed with one foot, and his studs were nearly on the ground. It should have been a yellow card.”
Barry-Murphy himself received a yellow card in the second half, explaining, “There was a misunderstanding. The referee seemed to think I was asking for a yellow card for a Wycombe player, but that wasn’t the case.
“He told me that signaling for a yellow card is an offense, but my intent was different.”
This defeat marked Cardiff’s second consecutive loss at home, widening the gap between them and League One leaders Lincoln City, who secured an injury-time equalizer against Huddersfield Town, putting them five points ahead.
Additionally, Cardiff’s lead over third-place Bolton Wanderers has been reduced to 10 points after Bolton’s scoreless draw with Doncaster Rovers.
Despite the team’s third loss in six league matches, Barry-Murphy remains optimistic about their performance.
“I think we are performing quite well,” he noted.
“With eight games left, our goal is to win each one, just like we did on Saturday against Exeter when we won 4-0, and again today.
“The players are in great shape, and I’m confident as we head into Saturday’s match against Blackpool at home. I’m very pleased with the team’s performance and the position we’re in.