As far as Super Sundays go, Middlesbrough v Watford was more sub-standard Sunday. The Hornets scored the only goal of the game to secure the points, but it was referee Roger East who stole the limelight.
With 30 minutes on the clock, the fantastically named Isaac Success was hauled down by Boro right back Antonio Barragan, who had already received a booking. Another was surely to follow, which would reduce the North East side to 10 men.
But the red card never came.
Boro player, with no intention of playing the ball, hauls Watford player to the ground as he breaks. Roger East gives him a talking to.
— Daily Cannon (@DailyCannon) October 16, 2016
How hasn't Barragan been dismissed? Very lenient from Roger East. Success running him ragged.
— Ryan Taylor (@CoveringEurope) October 16, 2016
The general consensus is that East backed out of making what would have been a game-changing decision.
31: Success is again fouled by Barragan down the left, and it's a final warning for the 'Boro man, who's already on a yellow. #watfordfc
— Watford FC (@WatfordFC) October 16, 2016
Roger East 100 per cent bottled that decision. Clearest second yellow card you'll see. #WatfordFC
— Adam Newson (@AdamNewson_) October 16, 2016
100% red card for Barragan. Ref bottled it.
— FPL_Fly (@FPL_Fly) October 16, 2016
Robbie Savage couldn’t believe it. Could not believe it.
How an earth is Barragan still on pitch , Booked for a pull back , then same offence no yellow ! #ridiculous
— Robbie Savage (@RobbieSavage8) October 16, 2016
The defender was walking a very thin line, on very thin ice, and was substituted before East had no choice but to ask him to leave the field.
If Boro have any sense, they'll sub Barragan off. Should have 3 yellow cards now.
— Paddy Power (@paddypower) October 16, 2016
And even though Barragan and Middlesbrough got away with it, the Boro fans were still irritated by the referee’s display.
#Boro fans absolutely furious at referee Roger East. He's had a poor game - but his worst decision was not sending off Barragan. 0-1
— Scott Wilson (@Scottwilsonecho) October 16, 2016
A day to forget for Roger East.
