The red card for Dalbert of Stade Rennes against Chelsea, for a handball penalty, caused a right stink.

Therefore, here's a SMALL BONUS VAR THREAD explaining why the decision was made and the theory behind the second yellow card.

If the arm is in an unnatural position, be that outstretched to the side, in front or above the shoulder, handball is punishable even if there is a deflection off the body.

This is the only relevant section. Anything below "Except for the above offences" cannot supersede.

To be clear on the exceptions:

- the first two apply to deflections onto the arm with it in a natural position.
- third is without a deflection and hitting the arm with it in a natural position.

There is no doubt that this section of the written handball law is confusing.

Dalbert's arms were out away from the body, making it bigger. Even though there was a deflection off the foot, handball is punishable.

The exception comes if Dalbert is attempting a tackle, pass or clearance and it deflects up. But for a mere block, there is no exception.

Why was Dalbert booked (second yellow)?

It's not about where the ball is going when it hits the arm. It's about when it hits the foot/body at first.

As Abraham's shot is on goal, it is blocking a shot on goal (even though it's deflected to the arm) and a mandatory yellow.

As we have seen in the Premier League, and with handball stats across leagues, there can be slightly different interpretations in competitions.

But UEFA's chief refereeing officer, Roberto Rosetti, has been staunchly behind strict implementation in UEFA comps.