NWSL Doubles Sophia Smith’s Punishment Dismissing Portland Thorns’ ‘Frivolous’ Appeal Over Red Card Controversy

Portland Thorns end up making a rod for their own back. Looking to avoid trouble, the Oregon-based club attempted to get a major chip off its shoulder by appealing over the red card issued to their star player Sophia Smith during their narrow win against the North Carolina Courage on June 8. However, instead of seeking relief, Smith and Thorns’ will likely see their punishment doubled!

Smith saw a double booking, first on the field for time-wasting after she scored the match-winner from the spot. Then, just minutes after getting subbed off, a ball went near the sideline and Smith jokingly dragged it under her seat. This saw referee Danielle Chesky give Smith a second yellow. Even though the forward had served her original one-game suspension and fine during Portland’s stalemate against Seattle Reign FC on June 16, the Thorns anyway decided to appeal. Unfortunately, the appeal was unanimously denied by the Independent Review Panel, ruling it ‘frivolous.’

That’s not all as in accordance with Section 13.3 of the NWSL Operations Manual, they were hit with some major disciplinary actions. Firstly, Portland would be required to renounce its bond, which is said to be worth $10,000. Secondly, they have lost their right to make any further appeals not just for the ongoing remainder of the season, but for the next season as well. This also includes the playoffs. At last, the suspension and fine associated with this appeal have been doubled, resulting in Smith receiving a two-game suspension and a higher fine.

This is certainly bad news for the Portland Thorns as well as for Smith, who cost her side with such a major setback. So the real question is, when will she make a return then?

When will Sophia Smith return to action for the Portland Thorns?

Doubling of suspension would typically mean that Sophia Smith would also miss the upcoming fixture against KC Current on June 23, Sunday. However, the NWSL Players Association has the right to appeal player discipline and they eventually did so on Smith’s behalf. Well, it turns out that the NWSL’s review committee unanimously supported the NWSLPA’s appeal. So what does this mean for Smith? 

This not only makes Smith eligible to play this weekend, but it also helps the USWNT star save from additional fines imposed on her. Yet, the Portland Thorns haven’t been cut slack as they still have to comply with their original penalties, including the forfeited bond and the loss of appeal rights for future disciplinary actions. Regardless, let’s see what kinds of repercussions they will face due to this decision against them.