Saints boss fined for criticism

The New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton is fined $15,000 by the NFL for criticising officials during the 34-32 defeat to Denver.

BRISTOL // The New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton was fined US$15,000 (Dh55,000) by the NFL for criticising officials. Payton was upset with a non-call during last Sunday's 34-32 loss to Denver, in which the Broncos were not flagged for lining up in the neutral zone late in the fourth quarter. He will appeal against the fine. The third-year head coach was upset after the Broncos linebacker Jamie Winborn was not penalised for the infraction on a 3rd-and-1 from the Denver 19-yard line with 2.40 left.

The Saints lost a yard on the play, and Martin Gramatica missed a 43-yard field goal in the loss. Payton voiced his displeasure in his press conference that followed, eliciting the fine. The NFL commissioner Roger Goodell sent a memo to all the clubs this week, clarifying league policy on criticism of game officials. Goodell told the teams he welcomes criticism, but wishes it be done in a private manner.

* PA Sport