PSV boss Rutten slams Strootman red

PSV coach Fred Rutten was unhappy with referee Kevin Blom’s decision to dismiss Kevin Strootman in their 2-2 draw away against Twente in the Eredivisie.

The Eindhoven giants were 2-1 up and appeared to be on their to way to an important win against one of their title rivals on Saturday until Blom sent off Strootman in the 72nd minute after a tackle on Twente forward Luuk de Jong.

“The crowd were treated to a great football game, with two attack-minded teams. We were the better side and were in full control of the match until the referee made a controversial decision that turned the match upside down,” a furious Rutten said.

“I think the referee got it catastrophically wrong when he sent him off. I respect colleagues, referees and I feel that everyone is allowed to make a mistake. But this is the kind of mistake he should never have made.”

“We could have snatched a late win, but I must admit Twente also had an opportunity to take all three points in the closing stages. We are very disappointed with the result. I can only praise my players for a good team performance.”

But Blom hit back on Sunday, claiming the tackle put de Jong’s physical well-being at risk.

“You can disagree about the color of the card but it was basically a very dangerous offense with a reasonable outcome,” the referee said.

“Strootman puts the security of De Jong serious threat. I wonder what the reaction would have been if … a serious injury would occur.”

PSV sit joint second in the Eredivisie table with Twente. Both sides have collected 22 points from 11 encounters so far.