Erik Pieters abused on social media after penalty was not given

BeSoccer 4 years ago 1.9k
Erik Pieters (L), in an archive photo, was abused on social media. AFP

Arsenal were held 1-1 at Burnley in a match which saw Erik Pieters involved in two possible penalty incidents. In one of them, neither the referee or the VAR gave handball and the Dutch defender was insulted on social media.

An error by Granit Xkaha meant Arsenal dropped more points in the Premier League. The Gunners were winning 0-1 and that error meant Chris Wood levelled and Arsenal dropped more points in their fight for a European spot for 2021-22. 

It all could have changed had Arsenal been awarded a penalty towards the end of the game. A handball by Erik Pieters went unpunished by the referee and the VAR and the Dutchman received insults on social media. Some people also wished for harm on his wife and unborn child. 

Burnley released a statement defending their player this Sunday: "We are aware of online abuse directed at Erik Pieters following yesterday's game. Thanks to all those who have highlighted it. We are in contact with all relevant parties and offering our support to Erik and his family."

Abuse on social media has become commonplace in recent times in Europe and the Government had already warned social media companies that they could be fined millions of pounds if they did not stop the problem. 

 

Mentioned in the news story

Erik Pieters
Premier League