Oldham Athletic have been handed a major boost ahead of Saturday’s League Two clash against Swindon Town after a red card handed to defender Gus Scott-Morriss was overturned by the FA.
The 29-year-old joined the Latics on an initial two-year deal in May from National League outfit Southend United. He immediately thrust himself into the starting lineup for the opening day win over Port Vale, retaining his place for the trip to Colchester United last Saturday.
Oldham had taken a 20th minute lead in stunning fashion through Keenan Appiah-Forson and looked to be heading into the half time break the happier of the two teams. However, the game turned in added time of the first period was Scott-Morriss was shown a straight red card following a challenge on defender Ellis Iandolo.
Change Of Heart After Footage Reviewed
At first glance, it was certainly a challenge which looked like it warranted a red card. However, replays showed there was perhaps not enough in it to earn a dismissal, prompting an angry response from manager Micky Mellon. Speaking after the game, the former Tranmere Rovers boss said:
“We weren’t beaten by the better team, and that’s with all respect. We were cruising and we were showing all the qualities that we undoubtedly had.”
Despite that, Mellon admitted that the club were unlikely to appeal the decision:
“You won’t win it, so no. You’ve got to pay money for that, so I will not waste the club’s hard-earned money.”
It has since emerged that Oldham reviewed the footage, prompting a change of heart. The FA announced earlier today that the red card had been rescinded alongside the three-match suspension which accompanied it.
— FA Spokesperson (@FAspokesperson) August 25, 2026
Decision Bittersweet For Oldham
Having Scott-Morriss available for the next three games is undoubtedly a huge boost for Oldham, although it will leave a bitter taste. It was a decision which certainly changed the game and allowed Colchester to carve a way back into the fixture by having a man advantage for the entirety of the second half.
Danny Cowley’s side eventually levelled in the 64th minute through Harry Anderson. They were then given the opportunity to take the lead when they were awarded a penalty with 15 minutes remaining, which Jack Payne saw saved by goalkeeper Mathew Hudson.
With 77% possession in the second half, the U’s pressure was finally rewarded in added time, albeit in the cruellest of ways. With almost the last kick of the game defender Lewis Temple turned the ball into his own net to give the home side all three points.
