ACCRINGTON Stanley have had their appeal against goalkeeper Paul Rachubka's three-match suspension rejected.

Rachubka was sent off for violent conduct in Saturday's home game against Plymouth but Stanley felt the red card was harsh and decided to appeal the decision.

The 31-year-old had been brought in on an emergency loan after regular keeper Ian Dunbavin sustained a long-term shoulder injury, but he remained available for the Boxing Day match at Bradford because the appeal could not be heard until the FA offices reopened today.

The appeal has now been turned down and Rachubka must serve a three-match ban with immediate effect.

Stanley are now without a keeper with a professional contract for the weekend trip to Rotherham, although 18-year-old Andrew Dawber did impress in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy earlier in the season.

The Reds have the option to bring in another emergency loan keeper but would need a deal to be completed by noon tomorrow.