Hartlepool United manager Dave Challinor gives his thoughts on Yeovil Town striker Rhys Murphy's controversial red card during 2-2 draw

With the Glovers leading 2-1, their top scorer was dismissed following a coming together with Pools defender Myles Anderson.

One the sending off, Challinor said: “I was obviously delighted when it happened, but I couldn’t really see it.

“Was I surprised? Absolutely, because I just thought the referee had just blown for a foul.

“I think the fourth official said there was an elbow thrown at Myles. I spoke to Myles and I think it was just more of a kick out, so it’s hard.

“Their chairman said that [Rhys Murphy] kicked out and it was a red card but you couldn’t really see from over where we were.

“He had committed a few fouls to be fair so it’s a totting up process and you expect he’s going to get a yellow but from our perspective, to then be going up against 10-men puts us on the front foot and allows us to change our system.”

Challinor changed things up with the introduction of winger Luke Molyneux for Anderson which signalled their attacking intent as they searched for an equaliser.

Gus Mafuta eventually levelled things up with 20-minutes remaining with a well taken header from Nicky Featherstone’s cross.

But the Hartlepool manager was frustrated that his side couldn’t keep the momentum going and snatch a winner in Somerset.

“We got another attacking player on the pitch in Luke and spent a lot of time in their half following the sending off,” Challinor added.

“We got the equaliser and probably should have gone on to win it. It can make things more difficult when a team goes down to 10-men when they have a lead to protect and that’s part of the reason why we made the change we did.

“We knew if we’d left Peter back with his pace he could be comfortable if they tried to play on the counter attack which they did. As much as you want to do everything you can to win it, you have to make sure you don’t throw it away.”