Here is the rewritten article in the style of 90min.com:
Lisandro Martinez Avoids Red Card for Rash Challenge – But Was it a Misdemeanor or Mayhem?
Published September 21, 2024, 19:47 GMT+1
Manchester United’s Lisandro Martinez was booked for a reckless challenge on Crystal Palace’s Daichi Kamada during their 0-0 draw at Selhurst Park. The Premier League Match Centre has explained the reasoning behind the referee’s decision not to send him off.
The incident in question occurred in the second half, with Martinez making a two-footed challenge on Kamada, despite having no intention of connecting with the Japanese international. Fans on social media felt the Argentine defender deserved a red card for his overzealous tackle, but VAR checked the incident and confirmed the referee’s yellow card decision.
"The referee issued a yellow card to Martinez for a challenge on Kamada," the Premier League Match Centre explained on social media. "VAR checked for a potential red card and confirmed the referee’s call of no red card, deeming this was a reckless challenge and made no contact with Kamada."
While the on-field decision may have sparked debate, the incident has highlighted the need for stricter punishment for reckless tackles in the Premier League. According to OptaSports, Martinez has committed an average of 1.9 fouls per game in the Premier League this season, with 42.9% of them classified as "reckless."
The Premier League Match Centre’s explanation has put to rest any controversy surrounding Martinez’s challenge, but fans will continue to demand improved discipline from players. Only time will tell if this incident marks a turning point in the defender’s commitment to fair play.
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