Vaessen explains irritation with Weghorst after Groningen draw
The Groningen goalkeeper confronted the Netherlands striker over his prolonged goal celebration and later criticised his conduct.
FC Groningen goalkeeper Etienne Vaessen has explained why he became irritated with Wout Weghorst during the draw with FC Twente. The pair were involved in a confrontation after the break, when Weghorst continued towards the goalkeeper for the second time in the match and referee Danny Makkelie stepped in to calm Vaessen.
The disagreement stemmed from Weghorst’s celebration after scoring the equaliser shortly before half-time. The Netherlands international pointed towards the sky in front of the section containing Groningen’s most vocal supporters. Vaessen felt the celebration, which included a prayer, lasted too long and was provocative in that location.
Vaessen said he raised the issue with Weghorst during the interval. Speaking after the match, he told VI that the striker was free to express his beliefs but should have returned to play more quickly. He described the behaviour as “a little irritating” before moving the conversation on.
The goalkeeper also had reason to be frustrated with his own performance. His poor clearance contributed to Younes Taha opening the scoring, and Groningen ultimately had to settle for one point. Weghorst levelled shortly before the break following two quick Groningen goals, while neither side found the net in the second half.
Reported first by
- Waarom Vaessen zich ergerde aan Weghorst: 'Doe dat lekker in de kerk'— VI Nederlands Elftal
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