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Steve Pantelidis of Gold Coast United - Source: Getty Images -
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Gold Coast hardman Steve Pantelidis could miss the rest of the A-League season after receiving a five-match ban for violent conduct in his side's heated 1-0 win over Melbourne.
The match review panel came down hard on Pantelidis while Melbourne Victory captain Kevin Muscat is set to miss two matches for another incident in Friday night's fiery match at Skilled Park.
Pantelidis was charged with "violent conduct when not challenging the ball" after appearing to elbow Melbourne striker Robbie Kruse in the 13th minute.
The midfielder then fell on Kruse, who landed awkwardly and injured his shoulder, placing him in doubt for the Victory's home clash with North Queensland on Friday.
Pantelidis has until 1500 (NZT) on Tuesday to appeal the decision but, if the ban stands, he may not play again this season.
Gold Coast have only two regular season games remaining and could only play three matches in the finals series if they finish in the top two and win the two-legged major semi-final.
Pantelidis was substituted at halftime as a precaution by Miron Bleiberg, who later admitted his player could "pay the price" for the act.
The midfielder has already served three suspensions this season and has racked up 12 yellow cards.
While the loss is significant to Gold Coast in the race for the minor premiership, the Victory's likely loss of Muscat is an ever bigger blow.
Muscat looked to strike Gold Coast captain Jason Culina in the face in a challenge for the ball during the first half of the loss.
The former Socceroo was charged with "serious foul play" and also has until Tuesday to appeal the suspension.
If the suspension stands he will miss the Victory's last-round showdown with Sydney FC, which is likely to be pivotal in the minor premiership battle.
Melbourne and Gold Coast are equal atop the ladder on 44 points with two rounds to go, with Sydney FC two points back.
