Burnley's new goalkeeper Martin Dubravka become the first victim of the eight second rule for goalkeeper during the match against Tottenham Hotspur. The Burnley stopper was punished for taking an age to release the ball out of his hands inside four minutes against Spurs. Referee Micheal Oliver began counting down the seconds while Dubravka held the ball
Spurs took the lead six minutes after the incident with Richarlison netting his and team's first goal of the season. The Brazilian put the team 1-0 up with a measured 12-yard volley from a Mohammed Kudus cross.
What is the 'Eight Second Rule' for goalkeeper
As per the new law, a goalkeeper holding the ball for more than eight seconds will be punished with a corner for the opposition. Referees will warn the goalkeepers with a five-second countdown. Until now the law had been six seconds and the punishment of an indirect free-kick but it was barely ever applied. The decision was taken by the Premier League to introduce the rule for clamping down on time-wasting.
About Martin Dubravka
Burnley signed Slovakia goalkeeper Martin Dubravka from Newcastle United on a one-year contract, for an undisclosed fee. Burnley had been looking to replace James Trafford, 22, who rejoined Manchester City in July in a deal which the Clarets say is a new record fee for a British goalkeeper.
The 36-year-old initially joined the Magpies on loan from Sparta Prague in January 2018 and kept 51 clean sheets in 179 appearances in all competitions during his seven-and-a-half years at St James' Park.
He played a key role in Newcastle's Carabao Cup win last season, keeping three clean sheets, including in each leg of the semi-final victory over Arsenal.
