Midland clubs join protest at season voiding
Halesowen Town and Stoubridge are among more than 60 non-league clubs urging the FA to reverse its decision to declare their season null and void.
Both the Yeltz and the Glassboys yesterday signed an open letter expressing “profound concern and displeasure” at last week’s voiding of every division below step two of the non-league pyramid.
It was a decision which sparked considerable anger and had particular ramifications for Halesowen, who were in the thick of the promotion race in Southern League Central Division One.
The letter, which has also been signed by Midland League clubs Sporting Khalsa and Walsall Wood, warns of the potential financial impact on clubs and claims the integrity of the sport risks being damaged.
Several clubs are thought to be ready to take legal action should the decision, which is yet to be ratified by the FA council, not be reversed and further consultation take place.
The letter reads: “Our concern is grounded primarily in the needless and inexplicable haste exercised in reaching the decision, coupled with a total lack of substantive dialogue or consultation with affected clubs.
“The decision also disregards the millions of pounds invested and countless hours expended collectively by clubs, and so has critical financial implications.
“We believe it is unacceptable such a decision has been handed down to us in this manner.
“We urgently seek constructive dialogue with the FA with the aim to have the decision reconsidered.”
It continues: “A crisis like this is a watershed moment for the FA and the relationship it chooses to have with non-league and grassroots football.”
