Mowbray baffled by Ballack decision

West Brom boss Tony Mowbray was left “confused” by referee Rob Styles after the official chose to book Chelsea’s Michael Ballack instead of sending him off during their 2-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge.

The Blues captain appeared to slap Chris Brunt in the face during the second half.

Both clubs did their best to play down the incident after the game but Mowbray admitted he had been left bewildered by the decision.

“It is a bit confusing from my point of view because he did lift an arm and slap him in the face,” said Mowbray.

“It was right in front of the referee and that’s what he gets paid for – to referee a football match.

“If he doesn’t think a slap is worthy of anything other than a yellow card, then so be it. It was right in front of me and right in front of him.”