Article
Spain: Sevilla claim ill-tempered win at Atlético
MADRID, Mar 23 (SW) - Sevilla won at Atlético Madrid 1-0 on Thursday to go fifth in La Liga, but the hosts had three players sent off and the match was also delayed for 25 minutes after missiles were hurled onto the pitch.
Early on, Atlético goalkeeper Leo Franco was the hero of the game, saving two penalties from Frédéric Kanouté on 15 minutes and another by Javiér Saviola a further 15 minutes later.
Atlético had Frenchman Peter Luccin sent off in the 72nd minute for his second bookable offense of the match, and Sevilla took the lead three minutes later on a goal by Antonio Puerta, which prompted the hurling of missiles, some of which struck Sevilla goalkeeper Andrés Palop.
The goal was a source of controversy as it was only awarded after the referee consulted with one of his assistants to ensure that there was not an offside call that should have been made. When the goal was awarded, the objects started flying.
Referee Ayza Gámez didn't waste much time and ordered both teams to the dressing rooms, but the match resumed after a delay. However, the game was quickly turned into a farce due to the behavior of the Atlético players.
Midfielder Martin Petrov became the second Atlético player dismissed in the match less than a minute after the match resumed, and Luis Perea was also dismissed late on to finish the game with eight players.
Comments (0)