This is the second time this season LA Galaxy forward Rob Friend’s acting has drawn a penalty. For Major League Soccer’s Disciplinary Committee, that’s one time too many.
After reacting as if he was kicked in the face by Drew Moor, Friend drew a 61st minute penalty on Saturday against Colorado, though his performance also drew the attention of the league office. In a decision handed down late Tuesday, the veteran striker has been fined an undisclosed amount for “embellishment”.
The first edition of Rob Friend: Professional Thespian came in Week One when the Canadian forward exaggerated contact from Real Salt Lake’s Tony Beltran to earn a late penalty in Carson, Calif. Thankfully for RSL fans, karma intervened, and guided Nick Rimando to the ball, preserving Real Salt Lake’s 1-0 win.
This weekend, karma was called on once again. After Moor’s imaginary contact brought out the best of Friend’s improv skills, Robbie Keane missed his second penalty kick of the season. Colorado went on to win, 1-0.
Though LA hasn’t benefitted from Friend’s antics, the league seems to have grown tired of the veteran’s act. Expect Friend’s next performance to earn a suspension.