“I can’t accept my family being insulted”

It was a testy final few minutes in Augsburg’s win over Werder Bremen with controversial refereeing decisions, leading to both player and fan pandemonium.

A penalty was given to Werder in extra time of Augsburg’s wild away win, but keeper Rafal Gikiewicz was able to save Marvin Ducksch’s effort for an important three points. Players from both sides were not pleased with referee Martin Petersen’s performance and Werder supporters are especially still fuming with Gikiewicz.
The 34-year-old goalkeeper tried to damage the penalty spot before the kick and incited the crowd with gestures after his save. This caused dozens of Werder ultras to jump down from the stands and confront Gikiewicz along with his teammates.

When asked about his actions, Gikiewicz explained, “That’s football. I was insulted for almost the entire second half and that was my answer. I can’t accept my family being insulted.”

Werder striker Niclas Füllkrug was especially displeased with nine yellow cards given in the game: “I think (the referee) started whistling petty fouls far too early, then he lost his line a bit and became more and more petty. He gave many unnecessary yellow cards and acted very hastily. But my God, that’s what happens.”

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