Toronto FC goalkeeper Chris Konopka fined and suspended for one game

TORONTO – Toronto FC goalkeeper Chris Konopka has been suspended one match and fined for “serious foul play that endangered the safety of an opponent.”

The incident occurred in the 59th minute of Toronto’s 4-4 tie with New York City FC on Sunday at Yankee Stadium. Konopka brought down Andoni Iraola as the Spaniard raced into the six-yard box.

The Toronto goalie appeared to kick out his legs in taking Iraola down. There was no foul on the play although Iraola was booked a minute later when, after getting treatment, he returned to the field without permission from the referee.

The league did not disclose the amount of Konopka’s fine.

The suspension offers Joe Bendik, last year’s starter, a chance to reclaim his No. 1 job this Saturday against the visiting Philadelphia Union. Konopka took over this season after Bendik was sidelined with a foot injury.

It marks the third time in four weeks that Toronto FC players have fallen afoul of the MLS disciplinary committee. Defender Damien Perquis was fined for embellishment and for a post-game tirade.

In other disciplinary news Wednesday, Whitecaps defender Kendall Waston was fined an It undisclosed amount for embellishment in the 88th minute of Vancouver’s match against Sporting Kansas City.

The big Costa Rican was also fined for embellishment in Week 16 against the Red Bulls.

And Red Bulls midfielder Lloyd Sam an undisclosed amount for embellishment in the 34th minute of New York’s match against New England.