US striker Charlie Davies fined $1,000 for diving

June 26, 2011 • • min read

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The MLS Disciplinary Committee announced on Friday that D.C. United striker Charlie Davies has been fined $1,000 for a dive against Real Salt Lake last Saturday.

Chris Wingert kicks the ball away from Charlie Davies but was called for a penalty kick foul

Photo: Getty Images

In the 83rd minute, Davies went down inside the area without being contacted by RSL defender Chris Wingert.

Video replay showed that when Wingert slid to challenge Davies on his run into the area, but he pulled his leg away so the striker wouldn't fall on it.

However, referee Terry Vaughn fell for it and awarded a penalty kick despite Wingert's protest. Davies converted the penalty to salvage a 1-1 draw.

"The MLS Disciplinary Committee ruled that Charlie Davies intentionally deceived the officials and gained an unfair advantage which directly impacted the match," MLS Executive vice-president Nelson Rodriguez said in a statement.

"This type of behavior tarnishes the image of the League, is detrimental to the game and will not be tolerated."

MLS has been trying to crack down on diving this season.

Rodriguez added: "Moving forward, all instances of behavior that serves to deceive and that directly impact the game will be subject to severe discipline, including a fine, suspension or both."