Rovers will press on with legal battle after financial support grows

RAITH Rovers chairman Bill Clark insists the financial support received from other SPFL clubs has allowed the Fifers, Dundee United and Cove Rangers to continue their legal battle.

The Stark’s Park supremo warned earlier this week that Rovers were at risk of going bust amid the soaring costs of fighting the petition tabled by Hearts and Partick Thistle.

A joint statement by the Championship, League One and League Two title-winners confirmed that the final bill could rise to £150,000 by the time the Scottish FA’s arbitration process has been completed.

As a result, Clark was giving serious consideration of withdrawing Raith’s defence.

However, he has been buoyed by the response of other SPFL members and, while reluctant to reveal the figure raised, says the additional income is enough to allow the three named clubs to stand their ground.

Dundee United, Raith and Cove Rangers could all feasibly see their promotions reversed if the ruling goes against them – with proceedings understood to be slated to get under way on Monday or Tuesday of next week.

Clark confirmed: “We have decided to continue to participate in the legal process, largely due to the financial support we have received from clubs throughout the country – in all divisions.

“A substantial amount of money has been pledged to support us and we’ve been very heartened by that.”

Even if the promotions and relegations are not quashed, the SPFL could yet be liable for a substantial compensation payout, with Hearts angling for £8 million and Partick aiming for £2 million.

Clark continued: “I think a lot of clubs have come to realise that it’s not just the three clubs involved in the petition who stand to lose out.

“There are financial risks for every single club in the SPFL.”

Raith Rovers chairman Bill Clark.