Cardiff's McPhail appeal rejected

McPhail clashed with Hendrie during the closing stages

Cardiff City have lost their appeal against Stephen McPhail's red card in Tuesday's 3-0 defeat at Stoke City.

The Football Association of Wales upheld the referee's decision to send off McPhail after striking out at Stoke's Lee Hendrie after 85 minutes.

McPhail, 26, will start a three-match ban on Saturday.

Bluebirds boss Dave Jones decided to appeal against the red card because he felt Hendrie had overreacted by falling down "like he was pole-axed".

But Hendrie defended his actions, claiming he was struck in the face by McPhail's fist.

"I am an honest player and wear by heart on my sleeve," said Hendrie.

Cardiff successfully appealed against McPhail's red card against Colchester on 4 November.

But he will now miss the return match against Colchester on Saturday, as well as vital games against Ipswich (9 December) and Hull (16 December).