Defensive woes for Cork City as Coleman appeal fails

Cork City have lost an appeal over a red card issued to Cian Coleman in Friday night's defeat to Dundalk in the SSE Airtiricty Premier Division.

Coleman was dismissed for a sliding challenge on Cameron Elliott.

It drew a furious response from the Lilywhites bench including from manager Stephen O’Donnell.

Damien MacGraith issued a straight red to Coleman.

Cork had been 1-0 up in the match before entering injury-time.

Josh Honohan was also dismissed for two yellow cards.

Cork lodged an appeal with Coleman making contact with the ball in the incident.

However the FAI have dismissed the objection.

A statement read: "An independent Appeal Committee of the FAI has rejected Cork City FC’s appeal for wrongful dismissal following Cian Coleman’s red card for serious foul play.

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

City will be hoping to welcome Jonas Hakkinen back for Friday’s game with Sligo Rovers or face being without a recognised centre-half due to injury and suspensions.

Sligo were without nine players for their defeat to Shelbourne last weekend, including a recognised striker.

The sides are currently separated by 10 points ahead of what will be an important game at Turner's Cross.

Sporting director Liam Buckley is likely to continue to be in charge of City along with Richie Holland.

He will come up against the side he most recently managed and face off against his former assistant John Russell.