Murray misses semi after appeal

Ian Murray had been backed by his United opponent

Hibernian captain Ian Murray will miss Saturday's Scottish Cup semi-final after losing his appeal against a red card shown last weekend.

The Scottish FA's review panel decided that the "violent conduct" shown towards Dundee United's Mark Kerr had not been captured by TV cameras.

It unanimously rejected the appeal on the grounds of a lack of evidence.

Hibs had submitted video evidence, but match officials argued that it was not of the incident in question.

Hibs manager Tony Mowbray said: "We thought there were good grounds for an appeal, so we are obviously disappointed that the appeal has been rejected.

"It would have been helpful if everything had been caught on camera."

Everyone is disappointed that Ian will miss such an important match Hibs boss Tony Mowbray

Kerr had also backed Murray immediately after the match, suggesting that he had noticed nothing untoward.

But his automatic, one-match ban means he misses the semi-final against Kerr's side at Hampden.

Murray was accused of swinging an arm at his opponent and was red-carded on the advice of assistant referee Steve Pullar, who informed referee John Underhill of the supposed offence.

"Everyone is disappointed that Ian will miss such an important match," added Mowbray.

"We, however, accept the decision and are pleased that the uncertainty has been removed.

"Suspensions, injuries and the last-minute changes are part and parcel of football.

"The players, coaching staff and everyone at the club are focused on the match."