Everton CEO Robert Elstone said, “Whilst we welcome the correct decision the FA panel has reached, it’s of course an outcome which will provide little consolation whatsoever to the 37,000 Evertonians packed into Goodison on Saturday to watch the 2-0 defeat.
“From the press, radio and television reports that surfaced in the aftermath of Saturday’s events, they were almost unanimous in their verdict and whilst I doubt there will be few Evertonians celebrating the decision, we are pleased with the news that quite rightly the red card has been rescinded.”
Rodwell was sent off in the 23rd minute for tackling a loose ball and catching Liverpool forward Luis Suarez with his studs on the follow-through. At the time, it seemed like a hard, but fair, challenge that was harshly punished.
Liverpool went on to wear down its hosts in the unseasonable heat and score two goals in the second half. It was its first win at Everton’s Goodison Park since Nov. 2009.
If upheld, Rodwell would have faced a three-game ban for the dismissal. Instead, the highly-rated midfielder will be available for selection when Everton host Chelsea on Oct. 15.
The 2-0 result will stand and Liverpool will keep all three points from the game. Everton Chairman Bill Kenwright focused on the injustice done to the player in his statement.
He said, “One of the biggest tragedies was for Jack himself. He has had a terrific season and was by far and away the most influential mid-fielder on the pitch up to that point.
“To deny him the opportunity to continue on such an important occasion must have been incredibly difficult for Jack – as it was for his team mates, manager and, of course, the fans.”
Photo Courtesy of LiverpoolFC.tv
