It was a horror challenge that thankfully did not lead to a horror result, though replays shows Paul Scharner's ankle unnaturally bend under the foot of Nikola Kalinic. The Croatian striker, responsible for two of Blackburn's three goals, recklessly went into a challenge, a ball loose in the middle of the pitch after El Hadji Diouf had been dispossessed. While the Baggie midfielder would eventually get up, Phil Dowd had seen enough, showing Kalinic red.
West Brom Vs. Blackburn: Paul Scharner’s Ankle Survives Nikola Kalinic Challenge, Croatian’s Day Does Not
It was an obvious call to make. Kalinic went high into the challenge, lunging with an elevated left foot, making contact with Scharner six inches above the ankle. The slow motion replay showed the type of bend we’ve come to associate with a fracture, though that’s our worse memories speaking. Scharner was fine, though the circumstance for injury was still there. Kalinic was justly shown red in the 64th minute.
Now in the 77th minute, Blackburn retains their 3-1 lead, settling into a decidedly deep and defensive posture against the Baggies. Despite their man advantage, West Brom has yet to meaningfully threaten Paul Robinson, with Steve Kean still on track for his first Blackburn victory.
See More:
