The Brazilian’s theatrics after holding his face when Milner simply “brushed against his arm” were the only “sour note” of the match, according to the Daily Mail writer, who nonetheless expressed his happiness for the Hammers and manager David Moyes in the paper’s print edition (August 29,, p. 63).
Holt has called for retrospective action as Paqueta did not face any punishment on the day, noting that “cheating like that has no place in the game”.
Holt said: “I am delighted that West Ham have made such a brilliant start to the season, and I am particularly delighted for their manager David Moyes.
“He struck a blow for his talent and reputation when his team outplayed Roberto De Zerbi’s Brighton, a team and a manager who anyone who loves the game has come to admire.
“There was just one sour note: when Lucas Paqueta fell to the ground clutching his face, after James Milner’s arm brushed against his arm, he escaped punishment. Amid all the debate about changing rules, I would like to see Paqueta hit with a retrospective three-game ban for what he did.
“Cheating like that has no place in the game”.
Make an example
Theatrics on the football field continue to be commonplace. While on paper it could seem harmless, attempts to deceive the referee should be taken seriously.
Paqueta’s ‘injury’ by Milner was particularly exaggerated. Milner very lightly grazed the Brazilian’s shoulder as the pair chased the ball down.
Onlookers could be forgiven for thinking Paqueta had been violently struck by Milner based on his response, but on closer inspection, the Brazilian was clearly attempting to win an unfair free kick.
While a three-match ban feels slightly harsh, examples need to be set to weed out this type of behavior. Paqueta only did not do it because he thought he could get away with it, and he did.
Credit: WestHam report
