FA charge Sunderland over City fracas

04 April 2012 18:46

Sunderland were charged Wednesday by the Football Association with failing to control their players during a recent Premier League draw with title contenders Manchester City.

The charge related to an incident in the 43rd minute of the 3-3 draw at Eastlands on March 31 when Sunderland players reacted angrily after referee Phil Dowd awarded a penalty following Craig Gardner's challenge on Edin Dzeko.

Mario Balotelli scored from the spot to bring the hosts level and later scored again as City recovered from 3-1 down to rescue a point.

Sunderland have until 4pm local time (1500GMT) on April 11 to respond to the charge.

Source: AFP