XFL officials penalize player for squirting water at down judge

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The XFL matchup between the DC Defenders and the Houston Roughnecks on Monday night featured an odd penalty that even left the referee a bit bewildered.

In the third quarter with DC leading Houston 23-8, the down judge came over to the referee and explained that a penalty was thrown on defensive back Ajene Harris because he squirted water at the official.

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Lucky Jackson, #11 of the DC Defenders, dives over William Likely #4 of the Houston Roughnecks during the first half of the XFL game at Audi Field on March 27, 2023 in Washington, D.C. (Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)

"No. 3? Squirted you with water? You’ve got it," the referee said looking a little confused about the situation.

The referee then announced the penalty and later had to explain to the Houston coaches what happened on the sideline that led to the flag. The coaches looked just as shocked.

Jordan Ta'amu, #10 of the DC Defenders, attempts a pass against the Houston Roughnecks during the second half of the XFL game at Audi Field on March 27, 2023 in Washington, D.C. (Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)

"Unsportsmanlike conduct, defense, No. 3. He squirted the down judge with a water bottle," the referee announced to the crowd.

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DC got an automatic first down on the play. The Defenders’ drive ended with a field goal.

The Defenders would win the game and hold off a Roughnecks comeback attempt, 37-26.

Jordan Ta’amu led DC with 245 passing yards and two touchdown passes. Lucky Jackson led the Defenders with five catches for 136 yards and a touchdown catch.

Cole