Bristol Rovers midfielder Jordan Rossiter has been charged by the FA for violent conduct following an incident during the first-half of the Gas’ 1-1 draw with Shrewsbury Town.
Rossiter is facing the prospect of a three-match ban after the incident in the 32nd minute at the Mem was missed by referee Sam Purkiss, so therefore retrospective punishment can be applied.
The 25-year-old challenges Tom Bayliss for a bouncing ball on halfway as the referee blows his whistle for what seemed an infringement elsewhere on the field. As Rossiter looks to grab the ball ahead of Bayliss, he appears to catch him with his elbow. Rossiter walks away with his head in his hands and while three Shrews players surround Purkiss demanding action, the Rovers midfielder receives a talking to.
It had been a bad tempered and frustrating afternoon for the Gas with Rovers players, staff and fans frustrated by Shrewsbury’s gamesmanship and constant wish to slow the game down at every opportunity.
A statement from the FA read: “Bristol Rovers FC’s Jordan Rossiter has been charged with a breach of FA Rule 1.1 following the EFL League One fixture against Shrewsbury Town FC on Saturday.
“It is alleged that during the 32nd minute of the fixture, the midfielder’s behaviour amounted to violent conduct in an incident on the field of play which was not seen by match officials. He has until Tuesday to provide a respond.”
Violent conduct carries an automatic three-match ban, it is described as, “when a player uses or attempts to use excessive force or brutality against an opponent when not challenging for the ball, or against a team-mate, team official, match official, spectator or any other person, regardless of whether contact is made.”
Rossiter joined Rovers from Fleetwood Town this summer and has made five League One appearances so far this season under Joey Barton, with three as a starter.
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