The phrase "needless penalty" means making a mistake or committing an offense that could have been easily avoided. It refers to an unnecessary consequence or punishment resulting from one's actions. Full definition
Finally, since some of these regulations can be complicated, seek guidance from your financial advisor to minimize exposure and help you avoid needless penalties. (traditionalira.com)
He also seems to have dropped his tendency to dive in and concede needless penalties every now and again. (thebigdiag.com)
Instead we let them settle and grow into the game and then once we had finally got going and taken the lead, we let them off the hook again by conceding as needless penalty which saw the game end in another draw. (justarsenal.com)