SHIELDS’ IRE OVER FAILED GROUND APPEAL
NORTH SHIELDS insist they lodged a strong appeal against their ground grading failure that has ended up with their demotion back to Step 5.
The Robins finished seventh in the NPL Division One East – their highest place in 50 years – having won promotion from the Northern League last season.
A crowdfunder was launched to raise £50,000 to make the necessary improvements to their Daren Persson Stadium but their attempts fell short in time for the March 31 deadline
However, they were belatedly able to secure funding and had appealed to the governing body to show ‘support and understanding’.
But despite their attempts, the appeal was rejected and they will return to Step 5, along with Skelmersdale United and Lymington Town, who suffered the same fate.
Badshot Lea, Bemerton Heath Harlequins and Rugby Town have been promoted from Step 5 as best-placed runners-up on Points Per Game and avoid going through the Inter-Step play-offs.
Shields say they are waiting further information from The FA on their rejected appeal before making further comment.
In a statement, the 2015 FA Vase winners said: “North Shields FC regret to inform supporters that after failing to have stipulated ground improvements in place that the FA have relegated us from Step 4.
“The club has provided extensive evidence to the Football Association with the plans in place and proof of funds as well as a very strong appeal put in place has been rejected by the FA.
“We are disappointed to say that club will now be relegated from Step 4 after a highly successful season and will be competing in Step 5.
“We will make a further statement regarding next season once we hear steps from The FA.”