Perkins scored against Darlington in the semi-final

Rochdale have failed in their bid to have David Perkins' red card overturned before this weekend's League Two play-off final.

The 25-year-old midfielder now faces a five-match ban, including the final against Stockport on Monday.

Perkins was shown a straight red card for a challenge on Ricky Ravenhill in extra-time against Darlington.

Dale held on in the closing stages to win 5-4 on penalties and secure the club a Wembley date for the first time.

Rochdale chairman Chris Dunphy said he was "outraged" at the decision to uphold the red card.

"Anyone who saw it on television could see there was no contact," he said.

"We felt confident the decision could be overturned and we are now stunned.

"The referee got it wrong and everyone could see he got it wrong. This underlines the poor standards of referees we have had at Rochdale this season."