A-League duo banned for diving

The A-League has hit Perth Glory striker Michael Baird and Central Coast Mariners'
midfielder Patricio Perez with two-match bans for diving.
And the competition's match review panel has also expunged Sydney FC goalkeeper Liam
Reddy's red-card for being sent off as a result of Perez's dive.
It means Reddy will be free to play in Sydney FC's clash with Adelaide United this
weekend.
Both Perez and Baird were banned under the A-League's simulation rules after winning
dubious penalties which affected the results of their games.
Baird's dive won the Glory a 2-2 draw with Melbourne Heart at AAMI Park on Sunday.
Perez won and converted a controversial spot-kick which gifted Central Coast
Mariners an equaliser in their 1-1 draw with Sydney FC at the Sydney Football
Stadium the previous night.
But Sydney FC gave their strong backing to both Perez's suspension and the decision
to overturn the red card given to Reddy.
"The evidence is quite clear and the decision to reinstate Liam is correct," club
chief executive Edwin Lugt said.
"We can't take back the result but at least we know have our goalkeeper back.
"As our game and players become more professional it is absolutely essential that
the referees do too.
"For the good of the game the FFA and all of the clubs must be committed to removing
simulation and that applies to Sydney FC too ... it's hurting our game."