Purse relieved with reprieve

Bluebirds defender hits out at Cole

Last updated: 30th April 2008

Darren Purse Cardiff

Purse: Delighted with red card reprieve

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Cardiff defender Darren Purse insists the Football Association of Wales' decision to overturn his red card was the "correct" one after his FA Cup final dreams were revived.

Purse was handed a straight red card late on in Saturday's 3-3 draw at Burnley for a challenge which led to Clarets striker Andy Cole, who needed 10 stitches in a leg wound, describing him as a "muppet".

A fully-blown war of words erupted between the two clubs after Bluebirds boss Dave Jones accused Cole of overreacting which led to Cole aiming an angry rebuke at Jones.

The offence was deemed serious foul play by referee Andy Hall and triggered a three-match ban which would have ruled him out of the Wembley final on 17th May, but the FAW committee's decision means the 31-year-old is now available to play against Portsmouth.

Purse was delighted at having the decision overturned and aimed a swipe at Cole for attacking Purse through the media.

"I'm delighted with the decision made by the FAW disciplinary panel concerning the red card incident as it means that I'm available for selection for the Barnsley match on Sunday, for the FA Cup final in May and the start of next season," Purse told the club's official website.

Disappointed

"I was disappointed with the post-match comments made by the Burnley player to the media as it was never a malicious tackle. It's just something that can happen in a football match.

"The correct decision has been reached and I'm happy to look forward now, while I would like to thank those both inside and outside for football for the support that has been given to me over the last few days."