Major League Soccer's Disciplinary Committee today handed down an additional two-game suspension and an extra $4,750 fine to Real Salt Lake midfielder Clint Mathis for his actions in RSL's 2-1 win over Chivas USA on Saturday, August 6 at Rice-Eccles Stadium. The Disciplinary Committee also suspended Chivas USA defender Esteban Arias for one additional game and fined him an extra $500 for his role in the on-field altercation.
In the 17th minute of the game, Mathis was fouled by Chivas USA midfielder Antonio Martinez near midfield. While on the ground, Mathis was struck by a ball kicked in his direction by Chivas USA forward Isaac Romo. During the proceeding altercation, Mathis was shown a red card which carries an automatic one- game suspension along with a $250 fine. Mathis was sanctioned for striking at an opponent in the face, failure to leave the field promptly after being ejected, verbally confronting the referee, kicking a soccer ball into the stands, and inappropriate physical confrontation with Romo prior to the leaving the field.
In total, Mathis is suspended for three games and fined $5,000. The suspension begins immediately, causing Mathis to be ineligible for tonight's game at New England, as well as RSL's next two home games; August 13 game against the Kansas City Wizards, and August 20 against the San Jose Earthquakes.
Chivas USA defender Esteban Arias, who also received a red card during the event which carries the automatic one-game suspension and $250 fine, was presented with an additional one-game suspension and an extra $500 for kicking at RSL's Brian Dunseth in the altercation. Arias must sit out Chivas USA's home game tonight against the Los Angeles Galaxy and Saturday's game at D.C. United.
Chivas USA midfielder Francisco Mendoza was fined $250 for game disrespect with regard to his actions. Romo, who received a yellow card for kicking the ball at a player (a $100 fine), was fined an additional $150 for his role in the melee. Having examined different video angles, taken testimony from both players and consulted and reviewed the doctor's postgame report, the Committee found that Romo did not simulate injury.
Under the terms of the CBA agreement, the Players Union may submit an appeal to the Commissioner for any discipline imposed as a result of an on-field incident resulting in a fine $750 or higher and / or a suspension of two games or more. Upon receipt of the appeal, the Commissioner will designate a time and a place for a hearing to be held as soon as practicable following receipt by the League of the Union's notice of appeal. A suspension shall not be stayed pending appeal.
