Stuart McLaren stood down

North Queensland Fury have taken some heavy steps against Stuart McLaren to ensure their commitment to the National Code of Conduct. Assistant Coach McLaren, who last week made some controversial comments in regards to the refereeing, has been stood down for the next two matches, in line with clause 13.2 of the A-league disciplinary regulations. He has also been banned from match-day media duties, and issued with a suspended $5000 should he breach regulations again.

On the Fury's actions, Chief Executive Rabieh Krayem said; “The Club has taken this serious action to send a strong reminder to all involved with the North Queensland Fury about the responsibility they have to the sport and the wider community. They must at all times embody the values of the Fury and remember that they are positive role models who represent this Club at all times".

Head Coach Franz Straka was issued with a formal warning after his conduct during his teams clash with the Mariners last Saturday.

A spokesman from the club stated "The Club has spoken to Franz about this incident and it’s clear to anyone that knows him, that his intension was never meant to cause harm or to bring the sport into disrepute.

"The touch was in no way deliberate and should be viewed within the context of Franz’s natural animation and enthusiasm, which has been widely applauded by media and the public, and is seen as an asset to the A-League."