Auckland striker drops f-bombs in ban 'loophole' clash with reporter

<p>Auckland FC striker Sam Cosgrove has blown up over questions about using a "loophole" to serve out a suspension before the A-League season.</p> <p>Cosgrove was handed a two-game ban <a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/08/27/auckland-fc-defeated-in-saudi-clash/" target="_blank">after being sent off</a> in the closing stages of Auckland's 1-0 FIFA Intercontinental Cup loss to Saudi side Al-Ahli in August.</p> <p>Auckland are allowed to play A-League professionals in their reserves side under New Zealand Football's participation agreement and competition regulations.</p> <p>That includes up to two 23-year-old non-citizens for each match day squad.</p> <p>The clause opened the door for the 29-year-old Englishman to <a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2026/10/12/loophole-clears-auckland-fc-star-sam-cosgrove-for-season-opener/" target="_blank">serve out his ban in Auckland's recent New Zealand National League fixtures</a> against Wellington Olympic and Miramar Rangers.</p> <p>In a fiery exchange on Thursday, Cosgrove couldn't recall the two matches and was bemused when asked if he had any unease or embarrassment over using the "loophole".</p> <p>"Embarrassment," he shot back at a reporter.</p> <p>"Why…