Bob Cratchitt
Devil's Advocate
a frivolous appeal charge?
However, FA spokesman Mark Hooper told BBC Sport: "The FA refutes any suggestion that certain clubs are treated differently to others. All cases are treated on merit.
"Under Fifa guidelines, the FA can only overturn decisions if there has been a serious and clear error by the referee.
"The vast majority of appeals are rejected on that basis. And the clubs are fully aware of the rules.
"If the appeal is considered to have been frivolous, then a further suspension can be added to the original ruling.
"This has happened to Burnley, Mansfield, Luton, Tranmere and Hartlepool this season - as well as Middlesbrough."
The first additional ban for a frivolous appeal was handed to Southend's Freddy Eastwood in August 2005.