WALES fans were left raging after Janis Ikaunieks escaped a “definite red” after a disgusting challenge on Jordan James – even after a VAR check.
The Welsh secured a 2-0 win in Latvia in their crunch Euro 2024 qualifier thanks to Aaron Ramsey’s first half penalty and a late David Brooks strike.
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The main talking point came midway through the second period when the 19-year-old Birmingham City midfielder knocked the ball past his Latvian rival just inside his own half.
But despite him having no chance of winning possession, Ikaunieks nastily lunged for the ball but instead kicked the Welsh ace directly on the kneecap, leaving him writhing in agony.
The Wales team were fuming and instantly protested with the referee as he only gave the Latvian a yellow card.
VAR then ordered the official to check out the pitchside monitor for a possible red card for the cynical and nasty foul.
However, Ikaunieks ended up unbelievably staying on the field after the referee decided that his original decision would stand – leaving fans and pundits alike in disbelief.
“One of the most blatant red cards you will ever see,” tweeted one.
Another asked: “How has the ref not given a red for that?”
A fellow supported said: Player gets booted in the knee well after the ball has gone, no red card after looking at the replay for an age. Disgraceful refereeing.”
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Ex-Wales striker Ian Walsh told BBC Radio Wales: “That is an absolute joke.
“You talk about standards, and all the intricate rules in football now that you can and you can’t do.
“Something as obvious as that and you’re not off the pitch. That is a disgrace.”
And fellow former Welsh frontman Nathan Blake agreed, telling BBC Radio Wales: “I can’t believe it. That is a disgraceful decision.”
