Social Distancing:  Boyata escapes hammer after celebration kiss

 

Hertha Berlin defender Dedryck Boyata, escaped punishment for planting a kiss on his teammate Marko Grujic’s cheek to celebrate a goal in their 3-0 victory over Hoffenheim.

Some had thought there would have been an instant hammer for the Belgian but operational guidelines of the German Football league let him off the hook.

The German Football League (DFL) confirmed that maintaining social distance during matches — especially during goal celebrations — is only a recommendation and will not be enforced by the threat of punishment.

“On the subject of goal celebrations, it was something that was merely advised in the guidelines — sanctions are therefore not necessary,” a DFL spokesperson told German media.

Hertha won the match 3-0. After Nigeria born Germany junior international Kevin Apkoguma put the ball in his own net in the 58th minute, Boyata pecked Grujic on the cheek, breaking the social distancing rules that have been in place worldwide since the coronavirus pandemic took hold.

The Bundesliga became the first league in Europe to resume action at the weekend following the COVID-19 lockdown

Five matches were played on Saturday with Borussia Dortmund recording a comprehensive 4-0 victory over Schalke 04 at the Signal Iduna Park.

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Boyata who joined Hertha May last year from Scottish league side Celtic, has so far made about 16 appearances for the Bundesliga side with two goals to his credit.