Mike Fondop will miss FOUR of Oldham Athletic's remaining five games of the season after failing to get his red card rescinded.

The striker was sent off just 15 minutes into the second half of Latics' 3-1 defeat at home to AFC Fylde on Good Friday, with referee Robert Massey-Ellis quick to brandish a red card and give Fondop - a half-time substitute for Joe Garner - his marching orders after a 50-50 challenge with Nick Haughton.

However, replays clearly showed the Latics forward was first to the ball, giving the club confidence in an appeal.

Oldham gathered evidence to support their case and had no reason to believe that the decision would not be overturned. AFC Fylde boss Chris Beech even provided a statement supporting Fondop's appeal.

But Latics learned on the eve of this afternoon's crunch play-off clash at Altrincham (kick-off 3pm) that the referee's decision had been upheld and Fondop will start his suspension immediately. A previous straight red card against Solihull in August means that he will be banned for the next four games.

Taking to social media after hearing the outcome of the appeal, Fondop posted: "There's a time to stay quiet and one to speak.

"I'm not one to usually express myself this way but I asked myself - silence when faced with injustice - does it help?

"I know one thing, I would have been consumed with regret shall I not have taken action.

"Mistakes are part of our daily habits but to think there was a chance for him to review his decision - but he still thought it was the right one leaves me with profound astonishment and frustration.

"Thank you to all those who commiserated. I'm even more thankful to everyone at the club for their backing and doing their best for justice to be served.

"A wrong decision for one man is now a costly mistake for me. The appeal was lost, I am utterly baffled. However, on this important day of Easter I chose to forgive him and leave it to God.

"Still a few (games) to go and I'll make sure I keep helping this team and this club as much as I can."

Fondop will not be available for selection until the final game of the season, at home to Wealdstone on April 20.