Dundee have launched an appeal against the red card Stephen O’Donnell picked up against Ross County at the weekend.
The midfielder was dismissed for the second time this season for a challenge on Iain Vigurs.
Dundee believe the decision by referee George Salmond probably cost them the chance of victory over the First Division pacesetters.
With O’Donnell now set to serve a lengthy ban, the Dark Blues are determined to have the influential player’s dismissal overturned.
Dens Park boss Barry Smith said: ”We have put in an appeal to the SFA about Stephen’s sending off. I feel it was the wrong decision so we’ll get them to take a look at it and see how we get on.
”The board of directors agree with me so have decided to spend the £500 it costs to go to appeal. Hopefully we will get the right outcome.”
After O’Donnell’s dismissal, Dundee were forced into a rearguard action throughout the second half against County but couldn’t hold out with the Staggies scoring eight minutes from time.
Despite being disappointed not to pick up all three points, Smith was full of praise for his players.
He said: ”A point against Ross County away is always a good result. And under the circumstances, it proved to be a great point for us.
”I was really happy with the way the lads played even with 10 men. We defended really well and were unlucky to lose a goal towards the end. So there is plenty to be positive about.”