Ateam sheet error has cost the Robe Football Club’s A Grade team its premiership points and score in the match against Glencoe on April 20.
The Roosters had easily accounted for the Murphies at home by 53 points: 17.14 to 9.9.
The double penalty has pushed the seaside club down from top spot to fourth.
Mid South East Football League secretary Naomi Mitchell said an investigation had taken place into a recent team sheet anomaly by Robe.
She said the MSEFL senior executive committee had thoroughly reviewed the recent breach of MSEFL By-law 22.1.3 by the Robe Football Club.
“After careful consideration, the senior executive committee found Robe guilty of the breach.
“These penalties have been applied in accordance with the severity of the breach and the provisions outlined in the MSEFL by-laws.
“By-law 22.1.3 – The 21st player (if used) shall be an under 17 registered players, who is listed on the under 17’s team sheet (for that day) as per 21.3.2.
“During the A Grade match against Glencoe, the Robe Football Club fielded an unqualified player, as their 21st player.
“It has been confirmed the player did not meet the eligibility criteria as an U17 senior colt player, yet was included in the team lineup.”
Meanwhile, Ms Mitchell said the MSEFL has imposed penalties on another club for an administrative error.
“Also at last week’s Junior Executive Meeting, a matter concerning the Round 1 Junior Colts match between Kongorong and Mount Burr was addressed.
“It came to our attention that Mount Burr fielded two players from Nangwarry without the necessary dual affiliation approval, a clear violation of league rules.
“Following the review, the Junior Executive determined that Mount Burr was indeed in breach of the rules. Consequently, the following penalties have been imposed:
“Loss of premiership points for the match, with the match awarded to Kongorong.
“Loss of score for Mount Burr in the affected match. A fine of $500, with $250 suspended until the conclusion of the season, contingent upon no further rule breaches by Mount Burr.”
Mount Burr had won the game by 19 points: 4.2 to 1.1.
According to Ms Mitchell, the MSEFL senior executive committee stresses the significance of maintaining the competition’s integrity and adhering to all league regulations and by-laws.
“Any failure to comply will result in penalties being handed out.
“The MSEFL senior executive committee unapologetically adopts a zero-tolerance stance toward any club attempting to flout the rules, with no exceptions tolerated.’’
Robe Football Club president Deb Mackey told The SE Voice that she would not be commenting until she had discussed the matter with her fellow club officials.
Mount Burr United Football Club president Clint Bowering said his club accepts the penalties as outlined by the league.
“The breach came about from a misunderstanding of the processes required for junior players to participate under dual affiliation permits,” Bowering said.
“It is hoped in future that a more simplistic and streamlined process may be adopted to ensure it is easier for junior players to participate in football whilst also meeting the league’s compliance requirements.
