11th November 2019
The board of Cheltenham Town Ladies FC are disappointed to have 3 points deducted and a fine imposed for fielding an ineligible player at Southampton Women on 15th September.
Chairman Andy Liddle commented “Despite strong mitigation, the FA had no choice but to impose the penalty. It could have been as high as 12 points, but had to be at least three as the rule states ‘shall’ deduct points rather than ‘could’ or ‘at our discretion’ etc. and therefore the Club has decided against appealing.
“Keynsham Town objected to the transfer of their player Kirsten Rendall on grounds that were subsequently disputed, but it is clear Kirsten should not have travelled.
“Liverpool fielded ineligible player Pedro Chirivella earlier in the season. It happens at all levels and is just so disappointing this year given the great start we’ve had.”
Cheltenham Town Ladies look to put this disappointment behind them as they play host to Leyton Orient Women in the SSE Women’s FA Cup First Round Proper next Sunday (1:30pm). The winner will go on to play Portsmouth Women away on December 1st.
