Leichhardt lifted to top ladder spot
FOOTBALL TWO huge FNQ Football rulings could put Leichhardt in prime position to add another trophy to the cabinet after a thrilling win in the women’s Intersport FNQ Cup final.
The Lions will move to the top of the Premier Women’s ladder after the governing body confirmed they would receive points for a Marlin Coast forfeit in Round 16, which was recorded as a bye on the FNQ Football scores website.
Leichhardt is scheduled for a bye in the last round, so the three points and 3-0 default result brings them in line with other clubs, but moves them to 42 points.
FNQ Football also announced this week the Lions will also retain the points handed to them after a Round 9 match recorded as a forfeit against Southside Comets.
The Comets pleaded their case for a replay to the independent General Tribunal two weeks ago, citing the unavailability of players due to representative duty and an assurance, which FNQ Football general
Leichhardt has received 3 pts for a Marlin Coast forfeit previously overlooked
An independent tribunal has ruled the Round 9 match between Leichhardt and Southside will not be replayed manager Matt Kelso admitted should have been given, the match could be replayed.
Leichhardt was given their say last week. The panel decided in favour of the Lions, which has infuriated the Ed- monton-based Comets.
The matter could be far from over, with Southside president Keiren O’Brien suggesting the club was considering further appeals. The next step would be to take their case to the FNQ Football Appeals Tribunal.
“It’s a shame for football, because it looks like it has elevated Leichhardt off the pitch. They don’t deserve to go up the ladder like that,” O’Brien said. “It’s decisions like this that aren’t good for football.”
He claimed the finding was based on incorrect information rival parties presented to the independent panel about how many players were registered with the club at the time.
The Cairns Post’s request to view details of the panel’s findings was denied.
FNQ Football general manager Matt Kelso said it was up to Southside whether they sought further appeals.
As part of the resolution, he said the panel recommended clearer and more stringent rules about dealing with representative unavailability.
Leichhardt president Jesmie Mulla said the club was happy with the outcome of both issues.