Celtic's Brown sees red in derby

Celtic are stunned at the Scottish Football Association's decision to reject their appeal against Scott Brown's red card in the Old Firm derby.

The Celtic captain was sent off for his part in a clash with Kyle Lafferty during Rangers' 1-0 win on Sunday.

Referee Dougie McDonald has since reviewed the incident and declared himself "content with his decision".

But a Celtic spokesman said: "We are amazed at this decision and believe it is the wrong one."

In addition to a one-match ban, Brown will miss a further two games from 14 March, having passed through the 18-point disciplinary threshold.

The 24-year-old, who netted the only goal in Scotland's friendly win over the Czech Republic on Wednesday, will sit out league games against St Johnstone and St Mirren.

"Given the general consensus that the initial decision was incorrect and the availability of supporting video evidence, at the very least, the incident should have been referred to a separate review panel," added a statement on the club's website.

"Naturally, we are very disappointed that this simple opportunity was not taken.

"Clearly, it is also very disappointing that Scottish Football Association rules do not permit this decision to be appealed."

Following a typically stormy match at Ibrox, former referees Kenny Clark and Stuart Dougal both backed McDonald's decision.

MY SPORT: DEBATE Give your reaction to Celtic's failed appeal

They stated to BBC Scotland that, by thrusting his head into Lafferty's chest during the pair's tussle, Brown had been deemed to have displayed violent conduct.

An SFA statement read: "In accordance with the provisions for claims of wrongful dismissal, the referee, Dougie McDonald, was requested to review the circumstances of Scott Brown's sending off against Rangers.

"The referee has indicated that he is content with his decision."

The failed appeal follows last week's story broken by BBC Scotland that Celtic had made representations to the SFA, aggrieved by decisions they believe had gone against them in matches this season - including the two previous games against Rangers.

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