QPR, Sunderland charged over player disorder
LONDON, November 13, 2014 (AFP) – Queens Park Rangers and Sunderland have been charged with failing to control their players during Premier League matches at the weekend, the Football Association announced on Thursday.
QPR’s charge relates to the reaction of their players after striker Charlie Austin saw two goals disallowed in the eighth minute of their 2-2 draw at home to Manchester City on Saturday.
One goal was ruled out for offside, the other after City goalkeeper Joe Hart accidentally kicked the ball twice at a free-kick.
“It is alleged that in or around the eighth minute of the fixture, the club failed to ensure its players conducted themselves in an orderly fashion,” the FA said in a statement.
Austin eventually did put QPR ahead at Loftus Road, only for Sergio Aguero to equalise, and although a Martin Demichelis own goal restored the hosts’ lead, Aguero struck again late on to earn the champions a point.
Sunderland have been charged for “failing to ensure their players conducted themselves in an orderly fashion” after Everton were awarded a penalty in Sunday’s 1-1 draw between the teams at the Stadium of Light.
Sebastian Larsson had put Sunderland ahead with a 67th-minute free-kick, but Leighton Baines equalised from the penalty spot nine minutes later after Connor Wickham was adjudged to have fouled Will Buckley.
Both clubs have until 1800 GMT on Monday to respond to the charges.