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Gerard Pique's gesture sparks change in La Liga protocol on celebrations

La Liga has announced that it will now notify the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) of "clear simulations and provocative goal celebrations" which are not mentioned in the referee's game report after Espanyol supporters objected to Gerard Pique's goal celebration in Barcelona's draw at Espanyol on Sunday.

The Competition Committee of the RFEF did not take any action against Pique because it was not reflected in the referee's report.

Pique celebrated by putting his finger to his lips to silence the home fans at RCDE Stadium -- a gesture that was deemed offensive by the home supporters and was considered "provocative" by La Liga president Javier Tebas.

A statement issued by La Liga said: "Clear simulations or offensive goal celebrations that have occurred in the past, which are not reflected in the referee's report and that can generate tension or go against good sporting behaviour, have always been repelled by La Liga, which will no doubt from now on notify them to the Competition Committee so that it determines those responsible."

La Liga, in its weekly report to the RFEF's Competition Committee and Anti-Violence Commission, said Pique's celebration was the catalyst for Espanyol supporters taunting him with chants about his family.

The statement added: "Spanish professional football is and must be an example of sporting conduct ... La Liga advocates and fervently defends the values of sport -- respect, cooperation, team work, coexistence, fight for equality, social responsibility and team spirit -- and will notify the RFEF's Competition Committee of any acts that go against the dignity and sporting decorum and that provoke the public's animosity."