Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Match ban for AS Roma coach Spalletti

AS Roma coach Luciano Spalletti has received a one-match ban for bitterly criticising the fourth match official following Sunday’s thrilling 3-3 draw at leaders Inter Milan.

Sports judge Gianpaolo Tosel handed down the ban after finding Spalletti had used “an insulting and provocative expression” to the official.

AS Roma will additionally have to cough up an 8,000-euro fine after some of their fans chanted abuse at Inter striker Mario Balotelli during the game.

Inter twice came back from two-goal deficits to snatch a point which extended their lead at the top of Serie A to seven points.