Sunderland head coach Gus Poyet is set to escape a touchline ban despite being charged with improper conduct by the Football Association following his tantrum and spat with Steve Bruce during Tuesday ’ s 1-1 draw at Hull . The Black Cats boss was sent off by referee Mike Dean for kicking over a cooler box in protest at Jack Rodwell ’ s booking for diving before he clashed with his opposite number . Poyet sarcastically applauded in Bruce ’ s face and goaded him with a comment which the Hull manager later said was ‘ not very pleasant ’ . Gus Poyet and Steve Bruce argue during their two sides ' clash on Wednesday evening at the KC Stadium . Bruce ( left ) had to be held back by the linesman as the row between the pair escalated . The two men argued after Sunderland midfielder Jack Rodwell was booked for simulation . Bruce was only kept from getting to Poyet by the intervention of assistant referee Stuart Burt and he was formally reminded of his responsibilities on Thursday . Poyet , however , was charged by the FA , although Sportsmail understands it is likely he will be fined rather than hit with a touchline ban . He refused to apologise for his behaviour following the game but will accept the charge of improper conduct , to which he must respond by 6pm on Monday . Steve Bruce 's son Alex ( left ) did not appear to make contact with Rodwell ( right ) , who fell to the floor . The 1-1 draw leaves both sides still fighting for their Premier League survival this season . Hull are 15th in the table with 27 points while Sunderland are just one point behind them in 16th .
Steve Bruce was sent to the stands during Sunderland 's clash with Hull City . Poyet and Tigers boss Gus Poyet were then involved in a spat . Poyet was then charged by the FA with improper conduct . The Uruguayan is set to be given a fine rather than a touchline ban .