How can Perth Glory be allowed to hold onto a point after the disgraceful act which saw Michael Baird throw himself pathetically onto the pitch? Upon hearing that the FFA acknowledges Baird's act was simulation and not a genuine penalty, it boggles the mind that they're still allowed to share the spoils despite cheating (and being found guilty of it!).
I know that in the cut throat business of professional football, players are desperate to ensure their club gains maximum points. In Michael Baird's case, rather than using his undoubted talent, he took the weak option and cheated (in my opinion).
In a fairly dismal effort to prevent further simulation, the FFA has imposed a two game suspension for his pitiful effort but the real disappointment is that Heart was cheated out of claiming a deserved three points and first ever win. In the words of a devastated Simon Colosimo post match; "Blatant simulation, and ah, they're the kind of things we're trying to get rid of in our game."
But how can this shameful act be outlawed when the penalty is as weak as the perpetrator's action? Surely the FFA can impose a greater penalty or even overturn a result for an event which proved so costly for our club. If players are only tickled with two game suspensions, what's to stop players throwing themselves around the box in the last few minutes more regularly?
Take one for the team, take a dive and have a two week paid break!
I know to some, my sentiments may seem an overreaction to what is just another controversial event in world football. But this event cost my club its first ever win, a win which would have strengthened belief amongst the faithful crowd gathered, a win which would have shown the league that we're capable of beating any side.
Some may say that referee Kurt Ams is to blame, but wouldn't it be fantastic if we got to a stage where an action like diving wouldn't even be considered by players. But because of one man's unethical action, we have to wait another excruciatingly long week.
On a positive note, it was incredible to see us hold possession so well in patches and continue our scoring form. The meteoric rise of Nick Kalmar is a joy to watch and will only be strengthened once Josip Skoko returns from injury to help polish this already sparkling diamond.
