John Marquis' red card: why Portsmouth are appealing, the FA process and when they'll find out the result

Pompey will appeal John Marquis’ straight red card he received in Saturday’s 2-1 victory at Shrewsbury Town.
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The striker was given his marching orders in the 68th minute following a challenge on the Shrews’ Harry Chapman.

Referee Benjamin Speedie deemed the tackle serious foul play, therefore reducing Danny Cowley’s side to 10 men.

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The Blues now wait to hear whether their bid to get the decision is overturned and if Marquis can feature against Rochdale on Easter Friday.

Here’s all the key information you need on why Pompey are appealing, when they’ll find out if Marquis’ suspension is rescinded and the outcome of recent appeals.

Why are Pompey appealing the red card?

Danny Cowley didn't expect the referee to send Marquis off for the tackle at the time.

The Blues feel the decision was harsh and don’t want to be without the man who netted his 16th goal of the season in the first half at New Meadow for three important games.

John Marquis. Picture: Daniel Chesterton/phcimages.comJohn Marquis. Picture: Daniel Chesterton/phcimages.com
John Marquis. Picture: Daniel Chesterton/phcimages.com
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Given Ellis Harrison is ruled out for the rest of the season with a knee problem and Jordy Hiwula also potentially absent for the remainder of the campaign with a knee setback, the Blues will be left short of striking options.

Cowley said: ‘I was just really surprised by the ref showing a red card, I just didn't see it as a red card.

‘I think it was a robust challenge, the ball’s came into John and his touch just got away from him.

‘But he's an honest boy and he just went after the ball. He actually gets his foot to the ball and his foot's on the floor.

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‘I felt he was in control, so there was no intention and it wasn't reckless.

‘Time will tell (if it's worth it). But we'll have a good look at, sit down without the emotion and look clearly at the challenge.’

What did Shrewsbury make of the tackle?

Shrews first-team coach David Longwell believes the referee was right to brand Marquis a red card.

He told the Shropshire Star: ‘It did look as if his foot was up, I don't think he's tried to do Chappy but his foot was up over the top of the ball a little bit.

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‘It looked like a red from where we were standing but I'd need to see it again to clarify that.’

Who will decide on the appeal?

Three members of the FA’s Independent Regulatory Commission will meet to discuss the appeal.

How will the panel make its decision?

The members will review referee Benjamin Speedie and fourth official Steven Plane's respective reports, along with video footage of the tackle.

The panel will then consider the relevant laws of the game in relation to serious foul play.

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Have Pompey made any successful red-card appeals in recent seasons?

During Kenny Jackett’s time as manager, Pompey had two red cards reversed.

In the 2017-18 season, Dion Donohue was given his marching orders in a 2-1 loss at Doncaster. The Welshman lashed out at Niall Mason and was set for a three-match ban for violent conduct.

However, the FA agreed it was a case of wrongful dismissal.

The following season, Ben Thompson was given a straight red card in the closing stages of a 2-1 defeat to Charlton at Fratton Park.

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The midfielder was dismissed for serious foul play for a challenge on Lyle Taylor, but that was rescinded by the FA.

However, earlier this campaign, Jack Whatmough was sent for an early bath in a 1-0 loss to Lincoln.

The centre-back's challenge on the Imps' Jorge Grant was deemed serious foul play and Whatmough missed three matches.

It’s understood the Regulatory Commission’s verdict was split in Whatmough’s unsuccessful appeal.

When might Pompey find out if their appeal is successful?

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On the past three occasions the Blues have appealed red cards, they’ve found out two days after the games had taken place.

Pompey might then find out today, although it's likely to be a little later in the week as they're not back in action until Friday.

If overturned, will John Marquis be available for Friday's clash with Rochdale?

Yes, the striker will not be suspended and can be involved against the Dale.

What happens if the appeal fails?

Marquis will have to serve a three-match ban. That means he will be absent for League One games against Rochdale, Wigan and Burton.

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