Newcastle hit by Bellamy ban
Wednesday, September 25, 2002
Article summary
Newcastle United FC striker Craig Bellamy has been given a three-match ban for violent conduct.
Article body
Following Newcastle United FC’s 1-0 UEFA Champions League defeat to Feyenoord last night the club were given further bad news today when striker Craig Bellamy was given a three-match ban for violent conduct.
Video evidence
UEFA's Control and Disciplinary Body decided on the ban after Bellamy appeared to head-butt a Dynamo Kyiv opponent in the 90th minute of Newcastle's 1-0 defeat last week on Matchday One. Match officials missed the incident in Kyiv so the decision was made after video evidence was reviewed and a statement by Bellamy was taken into consideration.
Immediate effect
The ban takes immediate effect, however Newcastle have the option of lodging an appeal, which they must do by midnight on Saturday. Pending appeal Bellamy is now unavailable for the Group E matches home and away against Juventus FC and the return leg with Dynamo at St James' Park. The ban is a blow to Newcastle's hopes of progressing into the next group stage. They have yet to gain a point from their first two matches.
