Robbie Benson red card appeal dismissed by the FAI

Dundalk FC have been dealt another big blow to their preparations ahead of Friday's clash with Sligo Rovers after news broke earlier this evening that Robbie Benson's red card will not be overturned.

The Lilywhites were already 1-0 behind in last week's clash with Shamrock Rovers by the time the midfielder made what was perceived to be a high challenge on Rovers skipper Lee Grace, right in front of the Oriel Park dugouts. In the end, they fell to a 4-0 defeat.

The decision of referee Arnold Hunter to brandish a red surprised many, not least 30-year-old Benson, who had never before been sent off in over 400 career appearances. It led to the club putting in an appeal to the FAI.

"An independent Appeal Committee of the FAI has rejected Dundalk FC’s appeal for wrongful dismissal following Robbie Benson’s red card for serious foul play in Dundalk FC's SSE Airtricity Men’s Premier Division fixture versus Shamrock Rovers FC on 31 March 2023" read a statement from the governing body.  

"In accordance with the FAI Disciplinary Regulations, Robbie Benson will serve a two-match suspension."

It means the Athlone native will be unavailable for both Friday's clash with Sligo at Oriel Park, as well as Easter Monday's trip south to face Cork City.

This is the latest setback to hit the club following a series of injuries to key players. Pat Hoban and Cameron Elliot missed last week's game with Shamrock Rovers and do not look likely to feature this week either.

Also on the recovery room table is Paul Doyle, while John Mountney is a long term absentee who looks set to miss the rest of the season.