FA reveals why Arsenal’s appeal of Max Dowman’s red card was rejected – despite commission being SPLIT

The Football Association has revealed written reasons explaining why Arsenal winger Max Dowman's red card appeal was rejected following a split commission decision. The teenager was dismissed by referee Michael Salisbury for retaliating after a tackle by Fleetwood Town's Harrison Neal during a Carabao Cup match. Arsenal appealed both the wrongful dismissal and claimed the three-match domestic ban was clearly excessive, but both arguments were turned down.

The three-member regulatory commission was divided, with one member concluding the referee made an obvious error and that Dowman's action lacked excessive force or brutality. However, the majority ruled that Dowman made a forceful retaliatory kick that constituted violent conduct, validating the dismissal. Furthermore, the panel unanimously agreed that Dowman's age was not a mitigating factor and upheld the standard three-game suspension.