Release from 08.11.2021

Merano's Manuel Lo Presti suspended three games

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Manuel Lo Presti of HC Merano has been suspended for three Alps Hockey League games because of an incident deemed as roughing during the match against the BEMER VEU Feldkirch on Saturday.

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Manuel Lo Presti (#18) of HC Meran/o Pircher, time 47:40, made contact with an opponent deemed as Roughing, IIHF Rule 51. Based on the video evidence, it is determined the incident to be worthy of supplementary discipline - Category 2 – ‘Reckless’ – a deliberate and/or dangerous action with no concern for the result, with a conscious action to provoke, through intent and a willful purpose. Injury is not the determining factor but can be considered as influential means to the decision.

According to the Arbitrator and having considered the video evidence and ruling of the AHL PSC, player Manuel Lo Presti (#18) of HC Meran/o Pircher will receive supplementary discipline under rule 51 – Roughing.
On Saturday night, November 6th, in Merano an incident occurred, deemed as roughing.

As the video shows, after the VEU Goaltender #30 Alex Caffi, head butted a Meran/o Pircher player, HC Meran/o Pircher player #18 Manuel Lo Presti delivered a punch that is considered unsuspecting and dangerous.

It was taken into consideration that Lo Presti may have been acting in a manner to defend his teammate, after the illegal head butt action. However, the physical action Lo Presti used was more aggressive and dangerous then permitted.

The reason for supplementary discipline is due to the force, the intent and the location of an overly aggressive punch. Lo Presti, who had nothing to do with the 1st series of actions, unimpeded, skated towards Caffi from the backside, deemed unsuspecting to Caffi. Lo Presti delivered a aggressive punch that was both located and directed at the back of the head of Caffi. The PSC determined that the punch Lo Presti delivered, was a dangerous action, with intent and a willful purpose. Although it caused no apparent injury, the risk of injury is considered very high.

Key references:

  • Directed at the head of opposing player
  • Unsuspecting
  • Considered category 2
  • Not a repeat offender

From the perspective of DOPS and according to the AHL Penalty Catalog Ref. Nr. 117 - Roughing, Manuel Lo Presti (#18) of HC Meran/o Pircher, is suspended for 3 games, effective immediately.

All suspended games must be served based on the Alps Hockey League schedule before resumption of play is permitted in the ICE Hockey League / Alps Hockey League / ICE Young Stars League / ICE Juniors League.

Next game Manuel Lo Presti (#18) of HC Meran/o Pircher is allowed to play:
27.11.2021 Rittner Buam vs. HC Meran/o Pircher