In Gameweek 36 of the Fantasy Premier League, significant events unfolded regarding assists for key goals scored by Erling Haaland and Yankuba Minteh. Despite their impressive performances, assistant credits were awarded based on the intricacies of League rules.
Semenyo Misses FPL Assist in GW36
Antoine Semenyo’s contribution in the recent match involving Manchester City and Brentford did not result in an assist. Semenyo executed a dribble and delivered a cross that deflected off Nathan Collins of Brentford. A second touch from Omar Marmoush inadvertently set up Haaland, who scored Manchester City’s second goal in their 3-0 victory. However, the assist was not credited to Semenyo due to specific rule interpretations.
Haaland’s Goal and Assist Regulations
Haaland’s journey to scoring began with a saved initial attempt from Brentford’s goalkeeper, Caoimhin Kelleher. After his first shot was blocked, he managed to find the net with a follow-up strike. According to the official rules, an assist cannot be awarded in instances where a player scores after their initial shot is blocked or saved, which explained why neither Semenyo nor Marmoush received credit for an assist in this scenario.
Gross Secures Fantasy Assist
In contrast, at the Amex Stadium, Pascal Gross successfully registered a Fantasy assist for Brighton & Hove Albion’s third goal scored by Yankuba Minteh. Initially, Gross’s tackle on a defender led to the ball reaching Minteh, but it was unclear if an assist should be awarded.
Understanding Assist Rules and Touch Types
To receive an assist, a player’s touch must directly create a goalscoring opportunity. Three types of touches are recognized: Clearance, Control, and Pass. In Gross’s case, despite it being a tackle, analysts concluded that his action intended to direct the ball toward Minteh. Thus, the touch was classified as a Pass.
- Clearance: The player attempts to direct the ball away from all players.
- Control: The player aims to keep the ball close for another touch.
- Pass: The player’s intention is to direct the ball towards a teammate.
This ruling regarding Gross marks only the second occasion this season where touch type influenced an assist decision. Earlier, in Gameweek 11, a similar situation occurred involving Brentford and Newcastle United. The rules consistently emphasize that no assist can be awarded when a pass receives multiple defensive touches or when the defensive touch is classified as a pass.
As the Fantasy Premier League continues, understanding these regulations is essential for both players and fans as they navigate through the complexities of assist awards.
