Goalkeeper banned for 37 games after assault on assistant referee | OneFootball

A Primera Valenciana match in the Valencian Community has led to a 37-match suspension for the home goalkeeper after an assistant referee was hit.

According to Superdeporte, tensions escalated after a contentious passage of play. The game, staged at San Antonio de Benagéber's municipal ground, was between San Antonio de Benagéber and CDFB L'Eliana.

The referee's report says the home goalkeeper is said to have struck the assistant in the face, with contact to the jaw. The incident was recorded in detail and underpinned the disciplinary ruling.

The decision was issued by the Valencian Community Football Federation. Severe on paper, the measure can be seen as insufficient given the gravity and a zero-tolerance climate towards violence.

The ruling cites an assault on assistant referee number one, who required medical attention. It also notes the player did not notify the Competition Committee before its weekly meeting of any withdrawal from sporting or regular duties.

The case has reignited concern over the safety of referees in regional football, where tensions too often spill over.

Source: Superdeporte