Gills await Bentley verdict

Last updated : 20 October 2008 By Simon Head

Bentley was given a straight red card for Serious Foul Play after challenging Bantams defender Matt Clarke.

Fans from both clubs have expressed their dismay at referee Dave Foster's performance on the day - and both managers agreed that Bentley should not have been dismissed.

Bantams manager Stuart McCall labelled the decision "disgraceful" and agreed to back Gillingham's appeal to have the red card rescinded.

Mark Stimson told BBC Radio Kent: "It was a great tackle. He won the ball.

"Stuart McCall has said that he would back me. I think we've got to do it. He's a big player for us."

The FA Regulatory Commission will hear the club's appeal at 1pm on Tuesday and make their decision shortly afterwards.

Judgement in the club's favour will allow the influential midfielder to take his place in the Gills' starting lineup for that evening's home clash with Notts County at Priestfield. A negative ruling will see Bentley sit out the next three matches.