Football club disqualified from play-offs

A football team has been denied a chance of promotion after being disqualified from its league's play-off match.

Stockton Town FC had been set to play in the Northern Premier League (NPL) Premier Division play-off final, but was stopped after fielding captain Adam Nicholson in an earlier game when he should have been banned.

The club appealed the decision, however the NPL upheld its ruling at a disciplinary meeting on Sunday.

In a statement, the club said it was "disappointed" by the outcome and was considering further appeals.

"We are currently reviewing the decision and will assess our position before determining next steps regarding the appeal process," it said.

"We would like to thank our players, staff, volunteers, and especially our supporters for your understanding and unwavering backing throughout this time.

"We remain committed to transparency and will provide further updates when appropriate."

The breach occurred during the Premier Division semi-final game against Guiseley AFC, which Nicholson played in despite being sent off on the final day of the regular season.

In normal circumstances, a ban from playing would have kicked in seven days after the offence. However, the delay only applies during the regular season, meaning the ban also covered the semi-final.

Stockton were fined and Guiseley were given the play-off spot.

The NPL said: "The club admitted the charge but cited what it believed to be exceptional circumstances leading to the ineligibility.

"However, the panel found unanimously that the circumstances put forward by the club were not exceptional."

The Premier Division play-off final between Worksop Town and Guiseley kicks off at 15:00 BST.

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