Everton s Niasse suspended for 2 matches

London Nov 23 (IANS) Everton striker Oumar Niasse was sanctioned by England s Football Federation with a two-game suspension for diving.

The Senegalese player was accused by the FA of diving in the penalty area after minimal contact with Crystal Palace defender Scott Dann during Saturday s English Premier League (EPL) game at Selhurst Park Stadium which ended 2-2 reports Efe.

Everton scored on the penalty kick.

"It was alleged he committed an act of simulation which led to a penalty being awarded in the fifth minute of the game against Crystal Palace on November 18 " the FA statement said on Wednesday.

"He denied the charge however it was found proven following an Independent Regulatory Commission hearing today " the note added.

Niasse becomes the first player in the history of the EPL to be punished for simulation under a new rule introduced by the FA in May.

The 27-year-old will miss the Everton game on Sunday at home against Southampton and on November 29 at home against West Ham United.

Everton said in a statement that the club was "disappointed" with the decision of the FA but would accept Niasse s suspension.

--IANS
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