Article content

TORONTO – Exactly how “violent” was the tunnel tussle that could exclude Toronto FC’s Jozy Altidore from next week’s conference final meeting in Columbus?

Altidore was sent off at halftime two weekend’s ago during a nasty playoff meeting with the visiting New York Red Bulls.

We apologize, but this video has failed to load.

tap here to see other videos from our team. Try refreshing your browser, or 'I'M HOPEFUL': Toronto FC coach Greg Vanney awaiting Jozy Altidore appeal Back to video

Now, the Reds hope they’ve submitted enough evidence to overturn referee Chris Penso’s decision to red card Altidore following a brief shoving match with New York’s Sacha Kljestan.

Toronto FC prez calls Red Bulls’ actions ‘disgraceful’

“I would love for what both players have said and for what witness accounts are and what we’ve seen on video to be enough evidence for the appeal to carry,” coach Greg Vanney said.

“That’s what I would like to have happen but I’m not sure if that’s what’s going to happen.”

WATCH: All out melee erupts at BMO Field tunnel

Toronto FC insists the scuffle between Altidore and Kljestan amounted to little more than shoving and jawing – not violent conduct, as reported by an official.

The Reds expect an independent panel to rule on the appeal no later than Thursday, though a decision could come Wednesday afternoon.

“I’m just hoping what we’ve put together is to the contrary of what was actually reported,” Vanney added.

Club president Bill Manning wondered if Altidore is completely innocent of what he’s accused of.

Toronto FC maintains Altidore headed for the dressing room whilst chaos ensued, and didn’t strike an opponent.

“I’m hopeful,” Vanney finished. “I feel like the burden is on us to show that what we say and understand is true. Hopefully we have enough evidence.”