EPL 2016/17: Arsenal 3-1 Everton, 5 talking points

Modified May 21, 2017 18:31 GMT

LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 30: Gabriel Paulista of Arsenal lines up a pass during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal at White Hart Lane on April 30, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images) — Gabriel has only made 2 defensive errors all year

#1 Laurent Koscielny red card

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 21: Laurent Koscielny of Arsenal is shown a red card by referee Michael Oliver during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Everton at Emirates Stadium on May 21, 2017 in London, England. (Photo by Paul Gilham/Getty Images) — Laurent Koscielny may now miss the FA Cup final next week

When this incident first occurred, I literally jumped out of my chair in anguish screaming expletives at Michael Oliver. Five minutes and a couple of replays later, my opinion changed.

Replays show that the Frenchman lunged, yes lunged, in with both feet off the ground. Even though only one foot was aimed at Enner Valencia, both of Koscielny’s feet were off the ground in an aggressive manner.

By the laws of the game, Koscielny’s stance, body position and force of tackle all warranted a straight red card. The dismissal meant Arsenal had to play another 77 minutes with 10 men against the 7^th best side in the league. Somehow, the Gunners were able to maneuverer a meaningless victory in the end.

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Edited by Staff Editor