Union Berlin to file latest claim to have Bochum result overturned

Bundesliga club Union Berlin are still seeking to overturn the decision to award Bochum a 2-0 win after their goalkeeper was hit by a lighter thrown by a fan of Union- despite two legal defeats already, reported dpa.

The game originally finished 1-1 before the German Football Federation (DFB) twice ruled in favour of Bochum. Now Union are going to a special arbitration court used for disputes between professional clubs and the DFB or German Football League (DFL).

"We will file a lawsuit within the deadline," Union's communications chief Christian Arbeit said on Tuesday.

According to media reports, the deadline is set to expire in the coming days.

Sources close to the matter told dpa that the court aims to deliver a swift ruling to ensure clarity in the league table before the end of the season. The extra two points for Bochum have already been added by the Bundesliga.

The decision could be crucial for several teams given third-bottom Bochum currently sit in the relegation play-off spot. Union are also not safe from relegation.

Late in Union's match with Bochum in December, a home spectator struck Bochum goalkeeper Patrick Drewes on the head with a lighter.

After a lengthy interruption, both teams agreed to finish the closing stages of the match but Drewes said he was too hurt to play.

Bochum then asked the DFB to give them victory because Drewes being hurt meant an outfield player had to go in goal and sporting integrity was removed. Two DFB hearings agreed.

Union Berlin are also considering pursuing civil legal action.