Thursday 23 April 2015 18:50, UK
Inverness defender Josh Meekings has won his appeal against a one-game ban imposed by the Scottish Football Association.
Meekings was handed the 'notice of complaint' by the SFA's compliance officer after he used his hand to keep out a goalbound header from Celtic striker Leigh Griffiths in the Scottish Cup semi-final at Hampden on Sunday.
The SFA said the defender had breached 'Disciplinary Rule 200... denying the opposition an obvious goal scoring opportunity by deliberately handling the ball'.
However, a judicial panel has now dismissed the punishment handed to Meekings after the victory over Celtic, meaning he is available for the Scottish Cup final against Falkirk on May 30, live on Sky Sports.
'Delighted'
In a statement, Inverness said: “The club is delighted for Josh that the Judicial Panel Tribunal dismissed the complaint brought against him. Josh will now be available for selection for the Cup Final on 30th May 2015 v Falkirk FC.
“The result means that the club can now fully appreciate the achievement of reaching its first ever Scottish Cup final and focus on preparations for Saturday’s game versus Aberdeen FC.”
Meekings has also tweeted his reaction, adding: "Once again, would like to thank everybody for the messages and support given over the last few days. Back to business now, cannot wait!!"
Former SFA chief executive Gordon Smith and FIFA vice president Jim Boyce both told Sky Sports News HQ the SFA’s original decision to award Meekings a one-match ban was the wrong decision and could set a dangerous precedent for the game.
