A FALKIRK player has been hammered by the Scottish Football Association after making abusive comments to Pars midfielder Dean Shiels.

Kevin O'Hara was issued with a notice of complaint in relation to the Irn-Bru Cup meeting between the clubs last month.

He has now been given an eight-match ban for excessive misconduct.

Although not specifically stated, it is believed that O'Hara made malicious comments about Shiels' missing eye.

His teammate, Joe McKee, was alleged to have made similar comments towards the Northern Irishman.

McKee was also dealt with an issue of complaint and will appear before the SFA next Thursday.

A Falkirk club spokesman, commented: “The club take note of the decision made by the Scottish FA Judicial Panel and are in the process of requesting the written reasons.

“No further comment will be made at this time.”