City to appeal against Futcher dismissal

The giant defender is often on the end of dubious officiating due to his superior height

Futcher was dismissed for a professional foul on Yeovil forward Bartosz Tarachulski in the 59th minute of Citys solid 3-1 victory over their promotion rivals. However Keith has viewed the video evidence and has no doubt that it wasn't a red card offence.

"With Yeovil down to 10 men, I always thought the referee would look to even things up. But you have to be careful what you say about referees because you can land yourself in trouble with the Football Association."

"I have now viewed the video and can confirm I will be appealling. Eeverytime I watch the video it becomes clearer it wasn't a red card offence. Alan Marriott was about to pick up the ball when their player went to ground and for the referee to deam that a sending off is harsh to say the least."

Big Ben himself was no less certain of the fact an injustice had been served.

"I thought the referee might have given me a yellow card, but I was shocked when he dished out the red. I couldn't believe it because I thought the player was running away from goal and Paul Morgan was coming back anyway. It's very disappointing. I don't want to be suspended because the team are playing well, I'm playing well and we are up at the top of the table."

Futcher could miss the next three games against Cheltenham, Macclesfield and Wycombe if the FA don't agree with Keiths view of the incident. Yeovil manager Gary Johnson has a similar problem to face after Cowburn also sent off Yeovil midfielder Gavin Williams. It is unclear whether Johnson will be appealing against Williams card for violent conduct which will result in a similar three match ban.