Executive chairman Lyall Gorman told a press conference today that while the young goalkeeper is full of remorse for his actions in the dying stages of Sunday’s grand final, the intention is to pursue the appeals process in an effort to reduce the period he must spend on the sidelines.

Gorman said: “We believe there is an opportunity to present facts the tribunal (who dished out the original punishment) were not privy to. We are very hopeful we can put together a sufficient enough case to satisfy all parties.”

The executive chairman now hopes the appeal process can get underway as quickly as possible and has not ruled out a further course of action should initial efforts not satisfy the club.

Gorman stressed that Vukovic’s actions in making physical contact with referee Mark Shield were completely out of character for a player coach Lawrie McKinna has labelled an excellent ambassador for the club.

The goalkeeper apologised to Shield after the match and has also penned an official written apology.

The Gosford chairman said: “We can say that Danny deeply regrets his actions, however he is disappointed, as is the club, with the severity of the sanction for such a young player facing his first serious charge.

“The club stands by Danny at this time and regards him as an outstanding individual and member of the team. It will be later this week lodging an appeal against the FFA’s decision and we hope to have that matter determined at a hearing as soon as possible, hopefully early next week.

“The club and Danny don’t seek to excuse his actions but are hopeful that through the appeal process the penalty can be reduced.

“The club respects the FFA’s disciplinary process and with these appeal proceedings now pending, it is not appropriate for the club or Danny to be providing any further comment in relation to the matter until after the appeal is determined.”

Gorman said the Mariners would also be seeking clarification from the FFA with regard to possible sanctions which could scupper the keeper’s hopes of representing Australia at the Beijing Olympics later this year.

The Mariners have had to deal with further bad press after complaints lodged against two players at a fancy dress Mad Monday session. It has led to another rap on the knuckles from the FFA.

Andre Gumprecht and Tony Vidmar’s attire (as Adolf Hitler and God) has not gone down well with some individuals and Gorman has moved quickly to calm the situation.

He said: “Anyone that knows either of the individuals concerned would be aware of their excellent character and know that neither meant any offence or insensitivity by their costumes in any way.

“The club respects the FFA’s code of conduct and has today reminded the players that they need to be careful in relation to any sensitive issues which may cause offence to the public, or particular sections of it.

“To the extent that anyone was offended, the club and the players apologise and reiterate that no such offence was intended.”