AFFA Referees Committee Chairman Speaks About Controversial Episodes in "Neftchi" - "Sabah" Match

AFFA Referees Committee Chairman Frank De Bleeckere spoke about the controversial episodes in the "Neftchi" - "Sabah" match of the XIX round of the Misli Premier League.

"Report" informs that he first commented on the possible penalty episode in the 65th minute:

"Sabah" team member Khayal Aliyev enters the penalty area and throws the ball in front of him. "Neftchi" defender Yuri Matias makes contact with his shoulder during the fight for the ball and the attacker falls. The referee continues the game. This situation is related to "upper body" contact, and in such cases the intervention line is high. There must be high-intensity contact to award a penalty. But in that episode, the shoulder contact was weak. We support the referee's decision to continue the game.

However, after the yellow card given to the "Neftchi" player for unsportsmanlike behavior, his disrespectful "sarcastic applause" is unacceptable. This is a clear expression of dissatisfaction with gestures and should have been punished with a second yellow card. We cannot accept such disrespectful behavior that undermines the referee's authority. It is necessary to protect the image and integrity of football. This is a message to everyone who loves and respects football."

It should be noted that the "Neftchi" - "Sabah" match ended in a 1:1 draw.