Metz appeal firecracker points deduction

pulse 18:44 - 17 January 2017

Lyon's Portuguese goalkeeper Anthony Lopes reacting after a firecracker exploded beside him during the French L1 football match between Metz and Lyon on December 3, 2016 at Saint Symphorien stadium in Longeville-Les-Metz, eastern France

Metz are appealing a two-point deduction imposed after a Ligue 1 match against Lyon last month was abandoned.

French basement club Metz are appealing a two-point deduction imposed after a Ligue 1 match against Lyon last month was abandoned after firecrackers thrown by their fans injured visiting goalkeeper

The game on December 3 at Metz's Stade Saint-Symphorien was abandoned in the 31st minute following the incidents, which came after Gauthier Hein had put Metz 1-0 up with a superb goal.

Portugal international Lopes was subsequently taken to hospital where he was diagnosed with "acoustic trauma".

The two-point deduction leaves Metz in danger of relegation as they sit bottom of the French league with 18 points from 19 games.

"FC Metz have decided to appeal the decision," the club said in a statement.