Chelsea Football Club News

• Nickname:Blues
• Founded:1905
• Manager:Roberto Di Matteo

• Ground:Stamford Bridge
• Capacity:42,440

Jose accepts Ballack red

18 Sep 2006 - 08:25:20

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Jose Mourinho had no argument with referee Mike Riley after Michael Ballack was sent off in Chelsea's 1-0 victory against Liverpool at Stamford Bridge.

The Germany captain was dismissed six minutes into the second half for a stamp on Momo Sissoko, but the Blues held on to secure the points thanks to Didier Drogba's spectacular first-half strike.

Mourinho said afterwards: "Michael is not 20 years old. He has a long career and this is the first time he has seen a straight red card.

"He told me he didn't go in to hurt the opponent but the rules are very clear. The red card is deserved.

"Ballack arrives late and the ball is not there anymore. He stepped on Sissoko and it's a red card.

"After that it's 10 against 11 for a long time. It was a time to win, not a time to play beautiful football and score three or four.

"It was a time to get three points and the team showed unbelievable character. We deserve the happiness that comes with three points."