West Brom forward Aune Heggebo has been handed a two-match suspension for “successful deception of a match official” after scoring a goal with his hand during their 2-1 victory at Norwich in the opening Sky Bet Championship match of the new season.
The Football Association charged the Norwegian player with misconduct, contrary to FA Rule E3.1, following last weekend’s fixture at Carrow Road, where on-field officials allowed his 75th-minute goal to stand despite objections raised by the Norwich players and bench.
Heggebo had contested the charge, but an independent regulatory commission found it to be proven and handed down the sanction after a hearing.
West Brom stated the charge is believed to be “the first of its kind in English football”, arising from a regulatory change prior to the 2024-25 season. The club’s appeal maintained the ball had taken a deflection off the Norwich goalkeeper immediately before touching Heggebo’s arm, making any such contact accidental.
“The club will now write to the FA requesting clarification on how a player is reasonably expected to react should similar circumstances arise in the future,” a statement from the Baggies read. “Albion remain steadfast in their support of Aune, whose character and integrity have been evident throughout his time at The Hawthorns.”
Heggebo’s controversial goal put West Brom in front, with Jimmy Jay-Morgan then doubling his team’s lead with three minutes remaining.
Norwich pulled a goal back in the first minute of added time through Mathias Kvistgaarden, but were unable to find an equaliser as West Brom picked up a win on the opening day of the season.
West Brom have made a positive start to the season, having also beaten Rotherham 4-1 in the Carabao Cup to book their place in the second round of the competition.
The Midlands club are due to return to action when they host Burnley on Sunday before facing Premier League outfit Newcastle in the second round of the Carabao Cup at St James’ Park next Wednesday.
West Brom are also set to play Middlesbrough, Charlton Athletic, Watford, Derby County, QPR and Wolves ahead of next month’s international break.