Roy O'Donovan red card splitGetty

Roy O'Donovan staring at long ban following shocking challenge in A-League grand final

It's been described as one of the worst challenges seen in the A-League and Newcastle Jets striker Roy O'Donovan is set for a considerable ban after seeing red in the grand final.

The Irishman collected Melbourne Victory's Lawrence Thomas in the face late in the match with a swinging boot that left the keeper stricken on the ground for a number of minutes.

While the result of desperation rather than malice, O'Donovan's stray boot was dangerously reckless and a poor disciplinary record won't do him any favours at the Match Review Panel.

Article continues below

The former Central Coast Mariner was suspended for eight games in late 2015 for a headbutt on Manny Muscat. 

Former championship winner Clint Bolton wants to see O'Donovan out of the competition with a number of other well respected football personalties less than kind about his rash challenge.

To his credit, O'Donovan did seek out a bandaged Thomas after full-time to apologise with the pair embracing but a significant stint on the sidelines is inevitable for the 32-year-old.
Advertisement