Melbourne Victory striker Besart Berisha will not serve a suspension after the red card he received in Friday night’s win over Brisbane Roar was overturned.
Berisha was sent from the field in the 58th minute of Victory’s 3-2 win over Roar at AAMI Park after an incident with defender Luke De Vere.
Victory put in a submission to the independent Match Review Panel (MRP) in a bid to have Berisha’s red card rescinded, with the panel meeting on Sunday to consider the matter.
The MRP has the authority to consider the incident as Berisha was issued with a direct red card by the referee for the offence of violent conduct.
In reviewing the incident, the MRP considered an Obvious Error (Red Card) Application submitted by Victory, on behalf of Berisha.
The MRP unanimously allowed the Obvious Error (Red Card) Application in accordance with the Hyundai A-League Disciplinary Regulations.
Accordingly, the red card will be expunged from Berisha’s record and he will be available to play in Victory’s Round 7 catch-up match against Wellington Phoenix on Tuesday night.
“We’d like to commend the Match Review Panel for considering the matter quickly to allow us to plan for our game on Tuesday night,” said Victory head coach Kevin Muscat.
“Immediately after the game it appeared to me there were limited grounds to appeal the red card, but after reviewing the footage closely it became clear we could challenge on the basis it was an obvious error.
“Naturally, we’re pleased with the outcome. Importantly, it allows us to have Besart in our plans during what is a very busy period for the club.”
