JUAN FERNANDO QUINTERO was red carded yesterday for shockingly pushing a referee.
River Plate took on Rosario Central at El Monumental on Sunday with their title hopes ebbing away.
They went into the match four points behind leaders Boca Juniors with two games to play, and allowed tempers to flare when proceedings did not go their way.
Rosario took a two-goal courtesy of a double by Alejo Veliz.
Matias Suarez pulled one back for the home side in the 88th minute, and stoppage time seemed to go on forever without River being able to equalise.
Former Porto star Quintero, 29, lost his head in the 14th minute of time added on.
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The attacking midfielder appeared to grab at whistler Fernando Echenique before sarcastically clapping him.
In an instant the red mist descended and Quintero then shoved Echenique hard.
The composed referee immediately reached for his red card, seemingly looking on in disgust at what had just happened.
River went on to lose the match 2-1 and Quintero likely faces a very lengthy ban.
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The game marked the final home encounter for River boss Marcelo Gallardo, who is set to move on at the end of the season after eight years at the helm.
Prior to the match, the Argentine said: “My contract ends in December and I will no longer be at the club. It is one of the most difficult and heartfelt decisions I have ever made.
“Beyond the announcement, I am here to thank the people who trusted me.”
Gallardo, 46, won a host trophies with River, including two Copa Libertadores in 2015 and 2018 respectively.
He added: “I am going to finish my relationship as it should be, on Sunday I will have my last game at the Monumental.
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“Thank you for all the support and affection that you have shown me. It has been a beautiful story.”
His last game in charge will take place this Sunday away at Racing Club.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
