FFA finds Matt Simon guilty under Code of Conduct
Football Federation Australia (FFA) has determined that Central Coast Mariners player, Matt Simon, has breached the FFA National Code of Conduct (the Code) by actions he engaged in immediately after receiving an indirect red card in or around the 95th minute of the Hyundai A-League Round 20 Match between Central Coast Mariners and Brisbane Roar FC on 22 February 2019(Match).
Simon was asked to make a submission to FFA in response to the allegation, which he has done.
After consideration of the submissions made by Simon and Central Coast Mariners, for breaching clauses 2.1 and 6.1(a) of the Code FFA determined to sanction Simon with a one (1) match suspension and an additional one (1) match sanction, which is suspended until the conclusion of the Hyundai A-League 2019/20 Season.
In determining the sanction, FFA considered sanctions applied in comparable incidents in the Hyundai A-League.
In addition, FFA has informed Simon that any further breach of the Code could result in more severe sanctions being applied.
Speaking following the determination, FFA Head of Leagues, Greg O’Rourke, said that abuse of Match Officials is not acceptable and will now be subject to match sanctions, rather than fines, to deter players disrespecting match officials in the future.
“FFA acknowledges Matt Simon’s public statement of contrition and also his letter of apology to the referee,” said O’Rourke.
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“We agree with Matt that this sort of behaviour falls below the standards he set for himself and that, as captain, he set for his team-mates,” concluded O’Rourke.
Accordingly, Simon will be ineligible for Central Coast Mariners next two (2) Hyundai A-League matches against Wellington Phoenix on 9 March 2019 and Newcastle Jets on 16 March 2019 due to the suspension he has incurred as a result of the indirect red card and the subsequent breach of the Code of Conduct.
Simon has seven (7) business days to appeal FFA’s determination, should he wish to do so.
