RB SALZBURG had to maintain social distancing while lifting the Austrian Cup in bizarre scenes.
Erling Haaland’s former side smashed Austria Lutenau 5-0 in the OFB-Cup final, a result that would normally trigger jubilant celebrations.
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But as football is returning from an enforced break due to Covid-19, there were no fans to witness the feat or join in with the celebrations.
Despite having spent 90 minutes in close contact, preparations were made to keep the victorious Salzburg stars separated for the presentation.
Jesse Marsch’s squad had to stand on a large sheet with circles clearly marked out for where each player should position themselves in order to maintain the required distance apart.
Skipper Andreas Ulmer had the honour of lifting the sizeable trophy in front of an empty Worthersee Stadium on Friday night.
His team-mates did their best to muster up some noise before he hoisted the silverware but it made for strange viewing in the era of social distancing.
This could set a precedent for winning teams across Europe as most major competitions restart in June.
It could be the scenario facing this year’s FA Cup winners who are likely to lift the famous trophy in front of a deserted Wembley Stadium on August 1.
Premier League champions elect Liverpool could be stopped from lifting their first league title in 30 years at Anfield.
Six games could be held at neutral venues due to police requests, including the Reds’ Merseyside derby against Everton and the game where they could secure the title.
Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson may be forced to lift a historic Premier League with no spectators and in a similarly bizarre and socially distant fashion.
Footage of RB Salzburg’s extraordinary trophy lift struck a chord with social media users as one said: “Can someone explain why they are doing this when everyone touched the trophy and kissed it?”
Another added: “Is there any point if they’re all just passing each other the trophy anyway.”
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
