Victory were hoping to have Mrdja's ban reduced to one match after he punished for elbowing Sydney defender Shannon Cole in the first leg of the major semi-final two weeks ago.

Mrdja will now miss Sunday's second leg and if Melbourne progresses then he will also miss the Grand Final.

With Archie Thompson and Robbie Kruse still battling injuries, Victory are now without a recognised striker for this weekend's clash.

Melbourne have seven days to decide if they want to appeal the verdict.