SFA dismisses Clyde appeal over ineligible Fitzpatrick

Clyde’s appeal to the Scottish FA into the punishment handed out last month by the SPFL for fielding the ineligible Declan Fitzpatrick in two League 2 games has been dismissed by the game’s governing body.

Title-chasing Bully Wee had earned four points, from a 1-0 win over Albion Rovers and a 1-1 draw at Queen’s Park in February, with Fitzpatrick, who had been on loan at junior side Clydebank, in their ranks.

However, as he had been recalled incorrectly after the January transfer window had closed, the results were annulled and 3-0 victories handed to the relegation-threatened Coatbridge side and the Hampden outfit.

Clyde’s appeal that the punishment, which included a £1500 fine (£1000 suspended until June 2020), was harsh and inconsistent, was heard on Friday and they were informed last night that they were unsuccessful.

The Cumbernauld club’s case centred on Hearts being deducted only two points for fielding unregistered substitute Andrew Irving against Cove Rangers in a 2-1 Betfred Cup group success back in July.

Covewerealsonotawarded a 3-0 win although the SPFL had used the sanction against the under-20 sides of Queen’s Park and Stranraer last season.

The dismissal of the appeal has a significant effect at both ends of the table as Clyde sit four points behind leaders Peterhead while Albion Rovers remain two ahead of bottom club Berwick Rangers in their bid to avoid the pyramid play-off.

A spokesperson said: “We presented our case at Hampden. However, the appeal has been dismissed by the SFA Panel. Consequently, the original sanction of the annulment of two Ladbrokes League 2 results, 3-0 outcomes recorded in favour of the opponents and a £1,500 fine (£1,000 suspended) stands.

“We will issue a further statement once we have had time to go through the communication that has been issued.”