The only other thing I can really add is that this players eligbility has already been appealed once (during the AFF Qualifiers) and the appeal was thrown out by NZF on a technicality. In the official ruling NZF refused to rule out that this players eligibility could be overturned on a later appeal. Having said that will Sports play said player in the next round? Because of the silly appeal process sports games up to this point can not be appealed because the time has lapsed - hence Sports can't be thrown out for a previous indiscretion - if it is infact ruled to be one.
What a complete shambles!! In my opinion NZF have shot themselves in both feet with what has gone on here.