Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Montpellier coach Rene Girard has been given a one-match European ban for raising his finger to opposite number Huub Stevens at the end of last week's fiery Champions League clash against Schalke 04.
Uefa said today that its disciplinary committee had also given the coach a 5,000 euros fine for "improper conduct" due to his behaviour during the 2-2 draw in Gelsenkirchen on October 3.
Girard, who must sit out the home match against Olympiakos on October 24, was also banned for a further game, however, this was suspended for a probationary period of three years, Uefa said.
The French champions were also fined 17,000 euros "for the throwing of missiles and fireworks by their fans, and for the improper conduct of the team (five cards or more)".
Montpellier had five players booked and one sent off, but still managed to snatch a draw with a last-minute equaliser.
After the match, Dutchman Stevens said he had not seen Girard's insult when it happened but witnessed it on television later.
Stevens said he complained to Girard during the match over his incessant protests to the referee.
"He demanded a yellow card every time we gave away a free kick and that is something you just don't do, it's not fair," Stevens said.
Girard said that Schalke had "not respected us" and paid with the last-gasp equaliser.
Reuters
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments