Burngreave United FC would like to provide a clear and transparent update regarding our removal from the League Challenge Cup.
The decision by the Central Midlands Alliance League is based on a rule which states that players under contract with clubs at a higher level of the football pyramid are not permitted to play in this competition. The league has determined that two players who featured in our quarter-final fixture were still under contract at the time of the match, and on that basis, they have applied the competition rules which result in removal from the cup.
While we acknowledge the rule itself, we are extremely disappointed with the outcome given the full context of the situation.
As a club, we took what we believed were the correct steps. Both players confirmed to us that they were no longer under contract, and their registrations were accepted through the appropriate FA systems without any issues being raised. Based on this, we proceeded in good faith, with no intention of breaching any rules.
We were also fully transparent with the league, submitting our squad list ahead of the semi-final, which included the players in question. At that stage, we were advised only that they were ineligible due to registration timing, and we immediately complied by not selecting them for the semi-final, which we went on to win fairly on the pitch.
It is important to highlight that at no point prior to external intervention were we informed that the players were considered ineligible due to contractual status. This has understandably raised concerns for us around the clarity and consistency of the process.
We want to make it absolutely clear that Burngreave United FC has always aimed to operate with integrity, transparency, and in line with all regulations. We share team sheets, line-ups, and matchday activity publicly, and have nothing to hide.
Given the circumstances, we feel the decision is harsh and does not fully reflect the steps the club took to act correctly. We have therefore submitted a formal appeal and will continue to engage through the proper channels.
We thank our players, staff, and supporters for their continued backing. We remain proud of our achievements this season and will continue to represent our community in the right way.
One Club. One Community.