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Football

05th Sep 2022

Javier Hernandez apologises for embarrassing failed Panenka penalty

Simon Lloyd

They look great when they go in.

Javier Hernandez has accepted full responsibility after he squandered a stoppage time penalty with a failed attempt at a Panenka while in action for LA Galaxy on Sunday night.

With the game level at 2-2, the former Manchester United striker had the opportunity to give his side victory over Sporting Kansas City and – having already scored twice in the game – complete a hat-trick in the process.

It wasn’t to be. Having already converted a penalty minutes earlier to level the game, Chicharito attempted to loft the ball over John Pulskamp from 12 yards.

The goalkeeper, however, had the measure of the Mexican, remaining on his feet to comfortably catch his tame effort.

Javier Hernandez apologises for failed Panenka penalty.

The full-time whistle sounded seconds later, the game finishing as a 2-2 draw.

“It’s a mental game and I dared to take the shot, and the responsibility of not getting the two [extra] points falls on me,” the 34-year-old said after the game. “I accept it, one hundred percent.

“Unfortunately, I caused my team to drop two points,” he added. “But I’m going to keep on working. There’s no other way and I have to accept my responsibility.”

“He [Pulksamp] guessed right and that’s it.”

The Galaxy would have moved to within a point of the MLS Cup Playoffs in the Western Conference had he scored the penalty, but remain in eighth with six matches remaining.

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