In the game between promoted team Darmstadt in Bremen, two Darmstadt goals were disallowed. The second one particularly angered the “lilies”.
When Tim Skarke pushed the ball over the line to make it 2-1, the visitors’ block in Bremen’s Weserstadion literally exploded. The relief of the thousands of Darmstadt residents was palpable. Finally another win, finally hope again in the Bundesliga relegation battle. The “Lilies” have been without a win since the beginning of October.
But the joy only lasted for a short time. Referee Florian Badstübner received the signal that Skarke had his hand on the ball. Even if the arm could hardly be used anymore, if a goal is scored, every touch counts as a handball. A controversial rule that was also met with incomprehension by Darmstadt’s coach Torsten Lieberknecht. “That’s the rule. I would like to get to know the inventor of this rule in person,” said Lieberknecht and – still noticeably affected – added: “But not today.”
The 50-year-old also shouted “scandal” through the catacombs. Even in the stands, the SV Darmstadt 98 football coach could hardly calm down. He had to watch the game from there because of a yellow card suspension.
Lieberknecht also received support from colleague Ole Werner. The Bremen coach said: “This rule isn’t exactly cool. I think those who play football can do a lot more, whether intentionally or not,” he said. “On the other hand, it’s the rule. It will then be the same for everyone.” The hand rule will probably “be discussed until the end of days,” he predicted.
“Break all dams”
Almost goalscorer Tim Skarke replied resignedly: “It was like magic today. I’m celebrating for the first time and then I’m disappointed. The second time all the dams break. And then you see how disappointed you can be.”
The next chance to celebrate a goal comes next Saturday in the home game against FC Augsburg (from 3:30 p.m. in the live ticker on t-online).