Welling United can confirm that, due to an administrative error, they have been charged by the National League for breaching Rule 6.9 (fielding an ineligible player) and have received a one-point deduction. 

An independent panel ruled that the club were deemed guilty of failing to ensure a player had the required international transfer certificate prior to participating in two matches. 

The charge relates to Jay Simpson’s involvement in the games against Dartford and Slough Town, with the panel concluding that the one point gained, from the second game, should be deducted from the club’s record from the 2022/23 season. 

Supporters can find a statement from the National League, in full, below: 

An Independent Panel, commissioned by the National League, has met to hear the cases of two Member Clubs charged with alleged breaches of League rules. 

Two Member Clubs were charged with a breach of League rule 6.9. 

Rule 6.9 states: “Any Club found to have played an ineligible Player in a match or matches shall have any points gained from that match or matches deducted from its record, up to a maximum of 12 points, and have levied upon it a fine. The Board may also order that such match or matches be replayed on such terms as are decided by the Board which may also levy penalty points against the Club in default.

The Board may vary its decision in respect of the points gained in circumstances where:

(a) the ineligibility is due to the failure to obtain an International Transfer Certificate or

(b) where the ineligibility is related to a change in the Player’s status with the Club for whom he is registered or

(c) where the Board determined that exceptional circumstances exist”

The findings of both hearings are as follows. 

Gateshead

The Independent Panel ruled Gateshead were deemed guilty of one breach of Rule 6.9 for failing to ensure all players were not under suspension prior to participating in a match – therefore fielding an ineligible player.

The Panel concluded that one point gained should be deducted from the Club’s record from playing season 2022/23 and a fine of £750 has additionally been issued.

Welling United

The Independent Panel ruled Welling United were deemed guilty of one breach of Rule 6.9 for failing to ensure a player had the required international transfer certificate prior to participating in two matches, therefore fielding an ineligible player.

The Panel concluded the one point gained – from the second game – should be deducted from the Club’s record from playing season 2022/23.