Wigan Athletic FC

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• Founded:1932
• Manager:Roberto Martinez

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Ban for Hall as appeal fails

23 Feb 2007 - 15:15:03

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Wigan Athletic defender Fitz Hall will be suspended for the Latics' next three matches after the Football Association rejected his appeal against the red card he was handed in the 1-1 draw at Watford.

The former Oldham Athletic star will miss the Premiership games against Newcastle United, Manchester City and Fulham.

Hall was handed a straight red card by referee Rob Styles for a two-footed lunge at Watford's Johan Cavalli after just 20 minutes of the match at Vicarage Road.

After the match, Wigan boss Paul Jewell had refused to criticise Styles' decision to brandish the red card.

With an FA charge of improper conduct already hanging over his head for his angry comments aimed towards referee Phil Dowd following the controversial 2-1 defeat to Arsenal two weeks ago, the Latics chief played down the latest incident.

He said: "I didn't have a good view of it (the sending off).

"That's not a kop out. I was on the other side of the pitch but, from where I was, I was surprised when the red card came out.

"I've congratulated the team on a point well gained so I don't want the sending off to overshadow what I think has been a tremendous performance."