PERTH Glory have relented under pressure from Football Federation Australia and say they will accept the two match ban for Michael Baird as part of the war on diving.
Baird was penalised after winning a dubious last minute penalty in the weekend clash with Melbourne Heart when he went down in the box.
The resulting goal from the spotkick denied Melbourne Heart their first win and continued lory's unbeaten start to the season.
Baird was banned for two games by the Match Review Panel on Monday for simulation, but the club vigorously defended the player and insisted he was innocent.
But after heated talks with the FFA today which was followed by a statement from the FFA insisting the bans would stand, Glory backed down and said they would accept the ban.
"After taking independent advice and having robust discussions with the FFA, Perth Glory have decided not to pursue any action against the Michael Baird two game suspension," said a statement from the club.
"Perth Glory acknowledge that acts of simulation are subject to significant scrutiny in this country and the club is also committed to the removal of premeditated acts of simulation from our game."
The statement added: "Perth Glory acknowledges that defining and reducing acts of simulation is a complex matter.
"The FFA has developed rules and a process to reduce simulation which we must abide by. Our club wishes to see a process in place which respects an individual’s human right to defend him or herself.
"Perth Glory compliment the FFA for committing to review the process for making a decision on this disciplinary matter."
Despite accepting the ban, Glory still backed their player and defended him from being branded a cheat over the incident.
"At all times during this period, the welfare and human rights of the player has been of upmost importance to our club," said the club.
"We do not want our players in an environment where one spontaneous act (simulation) can unfairly 'label' a player, whilst other acts which have the same result during a game are dismissed as being part of the game and carry no 'label'."
The club added: "Perth Glory reaffirms the integrity and great character of Michael Baird.
"Michael has proven to be an outstanding young Australian, who over the past 12 months has had to overcome significant hardship to return to play in his home country.
"We look forward to his return game for Perth Glory in two weeks, and his ability, which will be of value in promoting our Hyundai A-League."
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