Meh, rules are rules, simple as that. No-one would argue that it sucks for the players, and I don't think there's anyway it could have been intentional - WTF would deliberately bring on an ineligible player off the bench when they're cruising to a win? (and he scored, although that's irrelevant).
There's no campaign or agenda although there's probably an element of tall poppy syndrome from some which really blows but hey, that's dunedin football for you.
But there's simply no way you can argue against the penalty. It's like a cop pulling you over for driving 10km over the speed limit. Did you hurt anyone? No. Are you going to be able to talk your way out of a speeding ticket? No.
Interesting that it's the club's second major Cup cock-up in recent years too.
Hope the $25 fine doesn't break the bank.