SWINDON Town are likely to appeal the red card handed to Jay McEveley during their 2-2 draw at Peterborough United in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy last night.

McEveley was dismissed by referee Paul Tierney in the 35th minute of the southern section area final first leg for a challenge on Britt Assombalonga – a decision Town manager Mark Cooper felt was unjust.

He and members of the club’s management team will review footage of the incident again before opting for an appeal, but he thinks one is likely.

“I thought it was very harsh,” said Cooper. “I’ve seen it again and Jay’s eyes never leave the football, the guy ducks to head the ball and Jay has made a genuine attempt to play the ball.

“We’ll look at it and there’s every chance we’ll appeal McEveley’s.”

Town outplayed Posh for long periods despite their man disadvantage and Cooper was delighted with his players at the final whistle. However, he felt the game was put into perspective by scenes towards the end of the game when paramedics tended to a Peterborough fan who collapsed in the home crowd.

“Obviously they were horrible scenes at the end and something you don’t want to witness. Thankfully the person has regained consciousness so that’s the biggest bonus of the night,” he said.

“As far as the club’s concerned I’m so proud of the football club. The supporters were first-class and totally out-sang the Peterborough fans and the players were astronomical in terms of their effort and the football they tried to play on a cabbage patch of a pitch.

“My only disappointment is we haven’t won with 10 men because we fully deserved to. I don’t think they had a shot in the second half. It’s set up for an interesting and exciting tie in two weeks’ time.”

Yaser Kasim picked up his 10th caution of the season during the clash at London Road, meaning the Iraqi midfielder will serve a two-match suspension.

Meanwhile, Swindon are closing in on the signing of Norwich winger Jacob Murphy on a loan deal.

The emergency loan window opens at the end of this week and the Robins are expected to draft in the England Under 19 international to complement their attacking options.