Roar's Theo explains A-League 'assault'

Suspended Brisbane goalkeeper Michael Theo has sought to explain lashing out at Adelaide United's Dylan McGowan, saying it wasn't his intention to collect his opponent.

Theo was handed a two-match ban for elbowing McGowan in an act the A-League's match review panel ruled was an "assault on a player".

Defender McGowan was felled by the blow, clutching his face.

Theo was red-carded, which led to Sergio Cirio's penalty in the sixth minute of stoppage time to hand the Reds a 2-1 win.

"There was absolutely no intention on my behalf to injure Dylan," Theo said in a statement issued through Professional Footballers Australia.

"Over the course of my career I believe I have shown that I would never purposefully set out to inflict harm on a fellow professional."

Theo refused to blame McGowan for provoking him by putting on pressure as he attempted to throw the ball out.

"My sole intention, and natural reaction, was to free my arms from being held back, so I could get the ball forward as quickly possible to try and win the match," Theo said.

"Unfortunately contact was made as a result, which was completely unintentional."

Theo, who will be replaced by Jamie Young in goal against Melbourne Victory this weekend, has decided against appealing the ban.