Wigan Athletic Football Club

• Nickname:Latics
• Founded:1932
• Manager:Roberto Martinez

• Ground:JJB Stadium
• Capacity:25000

Latics query Kilbane card

02 Sep 2007 - 09:39:05

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Wigan Athletic boss Chris Hutchings hit out at referee Steve Bennett after he dismissed Kevin Kilbane in the 1-0 defeat at Newcastle United.

The Republic of Ireland international saw red for picking up a caution either side of half-time at St James' Park and the Latics went on to lose to a late Michael Owen goal.

Kilbane was yellow-carded after 42 minutes for an ugly challenge on Steven Taylor and then within seconds of the second-half resumption, the former Everton man was sent off after harshly picking up another yellow for a challenge on Alan Smith.

"The sending-off within 30 seconds of the second half made a major impact on the game and what we had to do," said Hutchings.

"The referee said he led with the arm, but it was right in front of the dug-out and to me it was a clash of heads.

"It would be interesting if the referee would come and have a look at it and have his say.

"You come to places like this and you are always going to be under pressure. You have got to ride the storm and we did that until half-time.

"Obviously, it was a major setback having Kevin sent off."