Suspended Ajax-AZ match to be replayed without spectators

The Hague (Netherlands): The suspended Dutch Cup match between Ajax and AZ Alkmaar will be played all over again on Jan 19 but without spectators, the professional football board of the Dutch football association KNVB said on Wednesday.

In addition, the prosecutor of the KNVB offered Ajax a settlement proposal of a 10,000 euros fine and one match without spectators. The prosecutor believes that Ajax had not made all-out effort to prevent the pitch invader from entering the field. The encounter between Ajax and AZ in Amsterdam last Wednesday was suspended after an Ajax fan attacked AZ goalkeeper Esteban in the back. The incident occurred in the 37th minute when Ajax led 1-0. Referee Bas Nijhuis gave the goalkeeper, according to the rules, a red card for kicking the fan. AZ decided not to continue and the match was suspended. The Dutch football association has already decided to remit the red card of Esteban while AZ was also not punished for refusing to play on. Besides the replay, the other options were to restart in the 37th minute, or to count the 1-0 scoreline when play stopped as the end result. Ajax has to respond to the settlement before Jan 2. If Ajax does not agree, the case will continue at the disciplinary committee. IANS