LONDON, CMC—Rochdale has challenged Kairo Mitchell’s sending-off on Monday against Hartlepool to keep the Grenada international available for Saturday’s trip to Oldham Athletic.
The 26-year-old was handed a straight red in the 39th minute for a strong challenge on Tom Parkes, leaving the hosts to battle to a 1-1 draw at Spotland Stadium after coming from behind.
“The club can confirm that we have appealed the red card shown to Kairo Mitchell on Monday,” the north-west England outfit said.
“An independent panel will review the appeal, and Dale will be informed about the result as soon as possible before Saturday’s match at Oldham Athletic.”
Rochdale manager Jimmy McNulty had earlier criticized referee Richard Eley’s decision, calling it “disappointing” and pointing out that the official had appeared to be influenced by the fans.
“It was a very disappointing decision from the referee,” said McNulty.
“It’s the second time this season that I’ve been to see the referee after the game – I just needed to.
“I just felt that live, it was almost fan-led. It was on that side of the pitch, not directly in front of the Hartlepool fans.
He continued, “These guys have made difficult decisions; I respect that. It’s one of the first times I fully believe we will have an appeal overturned.
“It’s a clean, low, safe tackle.”
Mitchell has been outstanding in his first season at the Dale, netting 14 times in all competitions to be one of the club’s leading scorers.
Rochdale lie 11th in the National League, nine points off the playoff places, with a handful of games left in the season.
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