Finals-chasing Canberra United have been deducted three points after they were deemed to have breached the Liberty A-League’s competition regulations by fielding an ineligible player in a fixture, though they will appeal the decision.
The Australian Professional Leagues (APL) found Canberra utilised an unauthorised additional substitution in relation to the club’s 2-1 win over reigning premiers Sydney FC on February 11, 2023.
Sydney have now been awarded three points and a 3-0 win, but Canberra have appealed.
“The final substitute was made at a time in the game when Canberra had already used all available windows under our regulations,” said A-Leagues Commissioner Greg O’Rourke.
“Whilst it is unfortunate the League must ensure its regulations are upheld.”
In response, Canberra CEO Ivan Slavich said: “It is extremely disappointing to learn that the club will lose three competition points over this matter.
“We believe that we have not committed any violation of matchday regulations because of advice we received from the match officials during the fixture.
“The club will be appealing the decision.”
Despite the sanctions, goalscorers in the Canberra-Sydney will still be counted for the purposes of determining the winner of the Golden Boot.
Michelle Heyman and Ellie Brush were on target against the Sky Blues at McKellar Park, where Rola Badawiya scored for Sydney.
Any of Canberra’s players in that match will be eligible to be voted for the Goal of the Year, and any Julie Dolan Medal votes awarded to the club’s players will remain valid.
