Clint Dempsey sent off for tearing up ref's notebook, Seattle finish with seven men

Dempsey, regarded among many as the current face of US soccer after Landon Donovan's retirement last year, released his frustrations out on the referee after Seattle were reduced to just eight men.

The US Open Cup tie against bitter rivals Portland went to extra-time, but after Obafemi Martins was forced off through injury with no substitutions left and Michael Azira saw red for an elbow, it was Dempsey who produced the most ludicrous moment of the match.

The 32-year-old received one yellow and then a red after tearing the referee's notebook from his hand before ripping it up in front of him, leaving Seattle with just six outfield players on the pitch.

Portland immediately took advantage of the huge difference in numbers by scoring a third goal, and needed a police escort from the pitch at full-time due to concerns over their safety.