Football Australia’s Head of Referees Jon Moss has confirmed Melbourne Victory midfielder Zinedine Machach was sent off for “serious foul play” for a challenge on Sydney FC defender Jordan Courtney-Perkins in the Big Blue on Saturday night.
Machach was sent down the tunnel by on-field referee Adam Kersey after being asked by VAR to review the incident which occurred early in the first half on the pitchside monitor.
“After review, the tackle is with the studs to the shin with excessive force, the final decision is a red card.”
In a statement released by Football Australia, Head of Referees Jon Moss added: “The direct red card was for Serious Foul Play.
“Foot of the Victory player went over the ball, foot made contact above the ankle on Sydney player, and upon review by the referee, it was deemed Serious Foul Play.”
