The eircom League Board of Control has decided to refer to arbitration the FAI Appeal Board's decision in relation to the Bohemians v Shelbourne fixture.

The board met today to discuss the appeal board's controversial decision on Wednesday to order a replay of the match.

Shelbourne had originally sought the three points Bohemians were deducted after the Phibsboro club fielded a suspended player during a league match between the sides in August.

Bohemians won that game 2-1 but were subsequently docked three points for fielding defender Jason McGuinness, who was suspended.

The FAI's three-man appeal board committee have ordered the replay "as a matter or urgency" and "in the interests of fair play".

That decision has infuriated Derry City - Shelbourne's closest rivals in the title race - who are "dismayed" with the ruling and are now consulting their legal advisors.

The eircom League refused to comment further on today's announcement.