Hertha's Kobiashvili faces a year's ban

30 May 2012 19:17

Hertha Berlin's Georgia defender Levan Kobiashvili faces a year's ban after the German Football Federation (DFB) accused him of unsporting conduct during his team's recent play-off defeat.

Kobiashvili, 34, is accused by the DFB's disciplinary committee of striking referee Wolfgang Stark during Hertha's German league play-off tie at Fortuna Duesseldorf, but can still appeal the 12-month ban.

The incident happened on May 15 when Hertha drew 2-2 with Fortuna which led to their 4-3 aggregate defeat amidst chaotic scenes and a double pitch invasion that left players fearing for their lives.

Hertha Berlin lost an appeal for a replay and will play in the second division next season.

Hertha defender Christian Lell (six matches), goalkeeper Thomas Kraft (five matches) and defender Andre Mijatovic (four matches) have also been slapped with bans and have until tomorrow afternoon to appeal.

If the quartet appeal against their bans, the matter will be referred to the DFB's sports court who will hear their cases.

Source: AFP