The Mariners admitted defeat in the battle and said they were disappointed discussions with FFA and other stakeholders could not find a way to let the player defend himself.
 
Mariners Chairman Peter Turnbull reaffirmed the club’s support for Perez and its belief that he was still innocent of any wrongdoing.
 
“Patricio Perez has been recruited from Argentina, and in the half-hour he played against Sydney FC proved he may well be one of the greatest assets the Hyundai A-League has in its quest to become the pre-eminent football code in the country," said Turnbull.
 
“Patricio maintains there was definitely contact by the goalkeeper on his back leg and the replays prove that he had his eyes on the ball at all times as he tried to round the ‘keeper to score.
 
“The club has engaged the assistance of Biomechanical experts from the University of Newcastle to study the vision of the incident, and the report they have provided us supports his innocence.
 
“(Referee) Matthew Breeze was in an excellent position and made an immediate decision after the goalkeeper left his line and lunged at the feet of Perez.
 
“Patricio is hugely respected in his home country, he’s played alongside some of the world’s biggest stars, and after this news reached the Argentine media, his reputation has suffered, but I would like to commend him for the dignity, respect and professional attitude he has shown through this most difficult time.
 
“We have also been overwhelmed by the amount of support we have received from Mariners Members and supporters, and from football supporters in general. Patricio and the club are indeed grateful for this support.”

The Mariners have now vowed to do everything in their power to get the FFA to change the rules to ensure fairness for everyone in future.
 
Turnbull added: “We are firmly behind the FFA’s determination to rid the game of simulation.

"And it is pleasing to hear that the FFA will set up a taskforce to review the system and make recommendations to a formal review of the regulations and we would be more than happy to be involved in that should FFA require.
 
“The Mariners have a massive home game against Melbourne Victory tomorrow night at Bluetongue Stadium, and we would urge all of our  members and supporters to get out and show their support for a team who has had a pretty tough week.”