West Brom's Heggebo banned for 'handball goal'
West Bromwich Albion striker Aune Heggebo is banned for two matches by the FA for scoring a goal with his hand against Norwich City.
West Brom striker Aune Heggebo receives a two-match ban from the Football Association after scoring a handball goal during a 2-1 victory over Norwich City. Heggebo, a Norwegian forward, was charged with violating Rule E3.1 for handling the ball with his arm in the 75th minute, setting up the visitors' goal. Canaries coach Philippe Clement described the incident as "a decisive moment" and believed it should be disallowed.
The FA upheld the misconduct charge on Thursday, citing Heggebo's successful handling with the intention to score. Albion had attempted to appeal the charge, claiming it was accidental and highlighting the deflection off Norwich goalkeeper Vladan Kovacevic, which significantly impacted the ball's path. The suspension will see Heggebo miss the upcoming Championship game against Burnley and the Carabao Cup second-round tie against Newcastle United.
The FA's ruling marks the first handball-related ban in English football history since a rule change ahead of the 2024-25 season. West Bromwich Albion plans to send a letter to the FA seeking clarification on players' expectations in similar scenarios.
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