Scotland's task of defeating defending champions New Zealand in their Rugby League World Cup quarter-final got a little harder on Tuesday with forward Dale Ferguson losing his appeal against a two-match suspension.
The 25-year-old - who plays his club rugby for Super League leaders Huddersfield - was suspended for a dangerous tackle on US hooker Tui Samoa during the Scots 22-8 win over the Tomahawks at Salford last Thursday.
"We're very disappointed but we accept the panel's decision and move on," said Scotland coach Steve McCormack, who accompanied Ferguson to Tuesday's appeal hearing in Leeds.
"It's unfortunate for Dale, who has probably been our stand-out player so far."
Ferguson played in all three of Scotland's group matches which saw them qualify for the knockout stages for the first time and earn a chance-in-a-lifetime meeting with the Kiwis.
"It's a big loss but it gives an opportunity for someone else. We've a few players who can jump in there."
The Americans, though, had a more positive result in their appeal against a one game suspension for hooker Joel Luani, who can now play in Sunday's quarter-final against Australia after winning his appeal against suspension.
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