Phoenix successfully appeal Herbert suspension

WELLINGTON Phoenix FC has successfully appealed a Football Federation Australia suspension imposed on coach Ricki Herbert arising from an incident during the Phoenix’s 2-1 win against Adelaide United in Christchurch, with the ban reduced from three matches to only one.

The Phoenix successfully appealed tonight to the FFA’s Disciplinary Committee, which found that the suspension should be reduced to one match, with one match suspended.

The one-match ban means Herbert will be not be able to sit sideline for the Phoenix’s match against Gold Coast United at Skilled Park on Saturday only.

Phoenix chief executive Nathan Greenham said the club was satisfied with the result of the appeal.

“This is by no means an admission of guilt on the part of Ricki Herbert and the club, but it was felt important to put the matter behind us and to get on with our season.”