Notts County manager Chris Kiwomya has conceded that he understands why defender Gary Liddle was sent off just 13 minutes into their opening League One fixture.
Liddle received his marching orders from referee Keith Stroud for a high challenge on Sheffield United midfielder Kevin McDonald, leaving County to play just shy of 80 minutes with 10 men.
McDonald put the Blades ahead soon after, with Enouch Shomuni's second-half equaliser cancelled out by a decisive header from Harry Maguire.
Kiwomya believes that the decision was harsh on his side so early in the match, but concedes that he could see Stoud's point of view with the call.
He told Sky Sports News: "Maybe, sometimes it is, sometimes it isn't.
"He did go with his foot high, and sometimes you get them, sometimes you don't. I understand it.
"I just think the referee might just understand that it's early on in the game to give a red card, but I thought it was a bit harsh. That happens in football."
United held on to secure a 2-1 win in David Weir's first match at Bramall Lane, despite the spirited efforts of County's 10 men.
