MLS disciplinary roundup: Sergio Santos suspended for one game, Luciano Acosta fined
By Chris Smith
Major League Soccer's has revealed its latest punishments for misconduct in recent gameweeks.
The MLS's disciplinary committee has announced two fines and a suspension for week 15 of the 2021 season, including for a ball being kicked into the crowd and simulation.
Here is a roundup of all the updates...
Sergio Santos suspended for 'kicking an object toward fans'
Philadelphia Union forward Sergio Santos has been fined an undisclosed amount and suspended for one match after violating MLS' policy regarding throwing/kicking an object toward fans during the 56th minute of his side's 2-1 defeat to Orlando City on 22 July.
With the Union 1-0 down at the time, Santos was penalised by referee Alan Kelly for a challenge on Andres Perea. The Brazilian forward appeared to get a touch to the ball and vented his frustration by kicking the ball into the Exploria Stadium crowd - an action that saw him pick up a yellow card at the time.
But Santos will now pay a fine to the league, while he will serve a one-game suspension.
Luciano Acosta found guilty of 'simulation-embellishment' vs Atlanta United
FC Cincinnati playmaker Luciano Acosta has been fined an undisclosed amount, but escaped suspension, after the MLS disciplinary committee found him guilty of 'simulation-embellishment' during his side's 1-1 draw with Atlanta United on 22 July.
The Argentine appeared to initiate contact with oppenent and compatriot Santiago Sosa during the 58th minute of the Eastern Conference clash before going down holding his face following negligable (if any) contact from Sosa.
Acosta escaped punishment at the time and went on to give Cincy a 1-0 lead just three minutes later, though Atlanta quickly levelled through Venezuelan full-back Ronald Hernandez, taking a point back to Georgia.
Judson fined for 'failing to leave the field in a timely manner' vs SKC
Finally, San Jose Earthquakes midfielder Judson has been issued a fine for 'failing to leave the pitch in a timely manner' after he was sent off in the 93rd minute of his side's 1-1 draw with Sporting Kansas City on 22 July.
Having just conceded a stoppage-time equaliser to Dániel Sallói, the Quakes found themselves on the back foot as SKC charged forward on the break. In an attempt to shut down the counterattack, Judson tripped Cameron Duke from behind and having already been booked shortly after half-time, was given a second yellow card and his marching orders.
Instead of heading straight for the tunnel, Judson stayed on the pitch to remonstrate with referee Joseph Dickerson.