Sunderland have been given further reaction to Reinildo’s dismissal during Sunday’s Premier League clash with Aston Villa, after the defender saw red for lashing out at Matty Cash in the first half.

The left-back had started brightly but lost his composure following a foul by Cash. With the challenge already punished, Reinildo retaliated in full view of the fourth official, leaving referee Sam Barrott with little choice but to brandish a straight red. The Mozambique international protested furiously before leaving the field, while Granit Xhaka also questioned the decision on behalf of his teammate.

Pundits weigh in

On Sky Sports Ref Watch, ex-Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher praised Barrott for spotting the incident. “He’s done really well to keep his eyes on it,” Gallagher said. “He didn’t follow the ball, and because of that he picked it up. But why would a player do this?”

Former Cardiff City striker Jay Bothroyd was less sympathetic. “It’s ridiculous,” he said. “You can see the frustration — maybe Cash was a little late — but that reaction isn’t warranted. As soon as he’s kicked out, everyone knows he’s getting a red card. He let himself and his team down.”

Black Cats show spirit with ten men

Despite the setback, Sunderland showed resilience. Cash fired Villa into the lead midway through the second half with a powerful strike from a short corner — the visitors’ first Premier League goal of the season — leaving goalkeeper Robin Roefs with no chance despite getting a hand to it.

But Régis Le Bris’ side dug in and hit back quickly. Wilson Isidor struck his third league goal of the campaign just eight minutes later, securing a hard-fought point and ensuring Sunderland’s efforts didn’t go unrewarded despite being a man short.