Thu 22nd Feb 2007

The charges against Adelaide United FC defender Michael Valkanis for verbally abusing match officials on the field during last Sunday’s Hyundai A-League grand final have been dismissed.

An arbitrator for the Football Federation Australia found there was insufficient evidence to charge Valkanis with any wrongdoing after video footage showed no clear abuse at any match officials.

While this case against Valkanis has been thrown out, the defender must answer a second charge of verbally abused match officials in the tunnel after the game, which resulted in the FFA handing down a six match ban. Valkanis will appeal the six match suspension following the charges that were made by match officials.

The hearing will take place at 5pm Friday.