Doncaster Rovers appeal Joseph Olowu red card

The centre half was sent off for a challenge on Bolton’s Dapo Afolayan during the first half at the University of Bolton Stadium.

Rovers boss Richie Wellens confirmed the appeal when speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday’s trip to Burton Albion.

He said: “We hope that we get a decision on that which is favourable to us.

"There was a similar decision for Birmingham City with Ryan Woods I think. That was a plus for us because it was on TV and the panel spoke about it being a shocking decision.

"We believe the two cases are very similiar. The trip has happened and there has been a glancing blow with the second contact which is not really important.

"We believe we’ve got a good case.

“What is frustrating is that we’ve had two – against Wimbledon on the opening day when the guy didn’t get booked for it and then Lincoln last weekend where he does the same and gets a yellow card.

“We didn’t go off our heads against Lincoln like the Bolton staff and players did. We asked for a red card but in the back of our minds we knew it was probably a yellow.

"They should just come out and say if you trip someone on purpose from behind, now it’s a red card.

"Standard procedure is usually that it’s a professional foul stopping a counter attack – it’s called taking one for the team and you see it three or four times every weekend, whether it’s a pulled shirt of a trip.

"In no way was it a goalscoring opportunity and in no way did it endanger the opponent.”

Olowu is currently set to begin his suspension this weekend and, unless the appeal is successful, he will miss the trip to Burton.

His absence would leave Tom Anderson as the only recognised regular centre half with youngster Ben Blythe and Bobby Faulkner as back-up. Both Ro-Shaun Williams and Cameron John are out for extended periods.

Tommy Rowe filled in at centre back following Olowu’s dismissal, and just as he did against Scunthorpe United in the FA Cup.

And Wellens suggested the versatile veteran will be called upon again to take up the role, should Olowu not be available.

He said: “Because of the opposition we’ve got, with Burton away they put a lot of balls and throw-ins into the box, so you need experience.

"We hope the right choice is made with Joe but it looks like Tommy Rowe will play centre back if Joe is unavailable.”

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