Wittersham finally get the nod

Football

Wittersham have finally been confirmed as Ashford Saturday League champions.

The East Sussex club received the trophy at their presentation night on Saturday winning it on goal difference after finishing level with Tenterden Town.

The delay surrounded Town’s failed protest over Wittersham not being deducted the goals from their 11-0 home win against Smeeth & Brabourne last October, despite losing the points for fielding an ineligible player.

League chairman Barry Jones said: “He was only in- volved for a few minutes late in the game, but Wittersham believed he was as signed en-bloc at the start of the season.”

He added: “Nobody involved with the league can ever remember it ending in a tie. It has always been in our rules that points are deducted but goals are not.

“We sought clarification first from the Kent FA, who then referred it to the Football Association.”

Wittersham player-manager Shane Ridgers has left to take over at Rye Town.

The league hold their annual meeting at Sandyacres next Wednesday, put back 24 hours from the original date.

Mr Jones confirmed seven new teams are seeking election, with the competition set to revert to two divisions.

They are still seeking a replacement for long serving Sandy Blackmore who stood down as fixture secretary at the end of last season.

In a message to clubs on the league’s Facebook page, he said: “It’s time for me to hand the reins over after 20-years plus on the committee. Thanks for all your help...and making my job easier.”