Bradford Bulls forward Dale Ferguson will miss Scotland’s World Cup quarter-final against holders New Zealand at Headingley on Friday after losing his appeal against a two-match ban.

The second-rower was given the suspension by an international match review panel for a dangerous tackle on USA hooker Tui Samoa during the Bravehearts’ 22-8 win over the Tomahawks at Salford last Thursday.

He sought to overturn the ban but the original verdict was upheld by an appeals panel hearing in Leeds tonight.

“We’re very disappointed but we accept the panel’s decision and move on,” said Scotland coach Steve McCormack, who accompanied his player to the hearing.

“It’s unfortunate for Dale, who has probably been our stand-out player so far.”

Ferguson, 25, played in all three of Scotland’s group matches which saw them qualify for the knockout stages for the first time and earn a chance-in-a-lifetime meeting with the Kiwis.

“Dale is gutted to miss out,” McCormack added. “It’s a massive game to miss but, the professional that he is, he will support the lads and still has an important role to play.

“It’s a big loss but it gives an opportunity for someone else. We’ve a few players who can jump in there.”

There was better news for USA hooker Joel Luani, who has been cleared to play in Sunday’s quarter-final against Australia after winning his appeal against suspension.

Luani was given a one-match ban on Monday after being found guilty of a dangerous throw two minutes from the end of the Scotland game but 24 hours later succeeded in overturning the verdict.

Fiji will be forced to break up the partnership of Sims brothers after loose forward Korbin failed to overturn a two-match ban imposed for a "spear" tackle on England prop James Graham.

Sims, who has played alongside brothers Tariq and Ashton in all three of Fiji's group matches, was put on report for the challenge and found guilty of a grade B dangerous throw.

It means he will be unavailable for his team's quarter-final against Samoa at Warrington on Sunday, and also the semi-finals if Fiji get there.