Football Federation Australia has defended its decision to ban Melbourne Victory captain Carl Valeri from Saturday night's trophy presentation.
Valeri received a second yellow card late in the second half against the Glory, meaning he was unable to partake in the medal or trophy presentations on the podium post-game. Vice captain Leigh Broxham instead lifted the trophy with Coach Kevin Muscat and took over the captain's duties of making a speech post game.
Valeri joined his teammates on the field after the official presentation to receive his medal from Muscat and take part in the lap of honour.
FIFA's rules also govern that a player cannot return to the pitch or sidelines "during a match" after being sent off, however, unlike the FFA's it does not apply post-match.
“The regulations about players issued with a red card have been part of the FFA Cup since inception and for all of FFA's competitions,'' the FFA said.
“The rule states that ‘a participant who is issued with a red card or expelled from the field of play is not permitted to re-enter the field of play or the surrounds of the field'.
“Carl Valeri's presence on the stage at last season's A-League grand final after being sent off was a regrettable oversight and this was addressed following the event.
“Both clubs in the FFA Cup final were aware of this rule prior to the match and it was specifically outlined at the technical meeting with both clubs on the night prior to the final.
“The regulation is based on the practice in major leagues across the world. It reflects the severity of a red card and protects the integrity of a football event.”
