‘Very dangerous tackle’: Watch A-League star’s tackle at centre of yellow card betting probe

A yellow card received by Western United midfielder Riku Danzaki that led to him being charged by police was described by a commentator as “undeniably” deserving a card.

The yellow cards received by Western United midfielder Riku Danzaki that led to charges by the Victoria Police sports integrity unit show him performing two dangerous slide tackles that take out the legs of his opponents.

The probe began after betting irregularities emerged revolving around a player being issued with cards by match referees.

Riku Danzaki has been charged by the Victoria Police sports integrity unit. Picture: Getty

The first on April 27 shows Danzaki dive in late at a contested ball with both feet out and studs raised taking Sydney defender 19-year-old Wataru Kamijo in the ankles knocking him to the ground.

Kamijo can be seen writhing on the ground in pain during the replay with one commentator calling it “a very dangerous tackle” and “undeniably” deserving a yellow card.

The second against Adelaide United on May 9 shows Danzaki turn the ball over before chasing down the Adelaide’s Ryan Kitto and sliding from behind to take out his legs.

Records show that in well over 120 career games across league, cup and international fixtures that Danzaki had only ever received one other card.

The probe began into Danzaki and another player after betting irregularities. Picture: Getty

The Herald Sun has been told the bets at the centre of the allegations were relatively small.

Markets for cards are a mainstream betting option for those who punt on soccer.

The Herald Sun could find none available in a search on Monday, after they were still available on markets Sunday.

One long-time gambling industry source said the card markets were exposed to rorting because they could be manipulated by a player intentionally making a mistake.

That source said the situation was similar to betting on double faults in tennis.

“It (cards) is a market where there’s a risk of misconduct because it’s easy to do,” he said.

A second man from a lower league was also charged alongside Danzaki and the pair will face court at a future date.

Originally published as ‘Very dangerous tackle’: Watch A-League star’s tackle at centre of yellow card betting probe