Adam Jones played for Ossett Albion against New Mills, whilst under suspension. Picture: Adam Hirst
Ossett Albion have failed in their appeal over a three-point deduction for fielding Adam Jones, whilst the midfielder was suspended.
Albion are deeply unhappy with the Football Association’s decision at the appeal hearing which was held on Monday and ended a long-running battle with the Evo Stik League.
Jones played in Ossett’s 2-1 Division One North win at New Mills back in August and the club were then informed a few days later that the midfielder was actually under suspension because of outstanding fines from 2012.
Ossett told the FA that they had done the relevant checks before the season on the player and they claim that the National body accepted their explanation at the end of September.
A few weeks later the Evo Stik charged Ossett with playing an ineligible player.
They were then found guilty and handed the points deduction along with a suspended fine of £100.
The penalties were upheld at the appeal this week and the league said: ”The FA appeal was heard on Monday 12th January 2015 and was dismissed as playing a player whilst under suspension was fact and the League Rule was implemented correctly.
“The FA did observe that the club was subjected to a set of circumstances to which there was an element of sympathy and this had been reflected in the League sanction relative to the financial penalty.
“In addition no costs for the Appeal were charged to the club.”
Ossett said: “Throughout the process Ossett Albion have been fully co-operative and transparent with all parties concerned and immediately raised the issue with The FA as soon as it became aware.
“The Club feel very strongly that the penalties imposed are grossly unfair considering the exceptional circumstances surrounding the matter and are extremely disappointed with the decision at the FA hearing.”