Palmer later backed down and took back his criticism of the FFA's match review panel and disciplinary procedure.

Tonight the FFA revealed the club's appeal had been successful and the ban for an incident in the game against North Queensland Fury had been throw out.

An FFA statement tonight said "Gold Coast United player, Steve Pantelidis, has been cleared of violent conduct by the independent Disciplinary Committee following tonight's hearing at Football Federation Australia offices.

"A verdict of two to one was reached by the independent Disciplinary Committee whereby dismissing the case brought forward by the Match Review Panel."