Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott and Real Betis winger Antony were sent off after a brawl during a pre-season friendly match at the Benito Villamarin Stadium in Seville. Players from both sides clashed in the closing stages of the first half.
The confrontation began when Real Betis forward Nelson Deossa fired a ball at Bafode Diakite from close range after the Bournemouth defender fouled him on the wing. The referee showed Deossa a yellow card for his action, but Bournemouth players raced over to make their feelings known.
While most players jogged toward the incident, former Manchester United winger Antony sprinted to become involved and pushed two Bournemouth players. Scott then confronted the Brazilian, pushing Antony away and pointing at him.
Antony responded by raising his arms and pushing Scott back, prompting the Bournemouth midfielder to move away from the clash. The referee ultimately opted to punish both Antony and Scott with direct red cards on the stroke of half-time.
The decision came despite Antony, who left Manchester United for Real Betis last summer, appearing to be the main aggressor as tempers flared between the two sides.
Match Goals and Result
Bournemouth led 1-0 when the sendings-off occurred, after Marcus Tavernier scored for new Cherries manager Marco Rose's side in the 41st minute. The teams then exchanged quick-fire goals in the second half.
Isco temporarily drew the hosts level before Evanilson restored Bournemouth's lead on the hour mark. Real Betis equalised for the second time late on through former West Ham midfielder Pablo Fornals.
Pre-Season Schedule
The match was Bournemouth's penultimate pre-season fixture ahead of the new campaign. Bournemouth will face German opposition in Mainz next Saturday, before turning their attentions to their season opener against Manchester City on August 23.
