A steward prevents a Mansfield Town supporter from reaching
Liverpool's Luis Suarez (R) during their FA Cup third round
match in Mansfield. REUTERS/Darren Staples
ESPN has reprimanded one of its UK television
commentators after he called Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez a
"cheat" during Liverpool's FA Cup third round win at minor
league Mansfield Town.
The broadcaster issued a statement as controversy raged over
a handball by Suarez in scoring what turned out to be
Liverpool's winning goal in the 2-1 victory on Sunday.
"ESPN's editorial policy is for commentators to be unbiased
and honest, to call things as they see them. Inevitably this
can involve treading a fine line on occasion, especially in
the heat of the moment," a spokesman said.
"Comments during the Mansfield v Liverpool match caused
offence where none was intended and we have spoken to our
commentator about this incident."
Commentator Jon Champion told viewers as a replay showed the
handball: "That, I'm afraid, is the work of a cheat."
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers defended the player
afterwards, saying it had been an accidental touch and the
fault was with the match officials.
Suarez is no stranger to controversy on the pitch after a
string of incidents.
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