Local league gets tough

Action from the recent game between Warren YM and Glaston, at Lisburn Leisureplex. US1445-514cd Picture: Cliff Donaldson

League secretary, Barry McComb, said a few incidents came to the notice of the committee and they checked the registration forms of all clubs.

This resulted in a change in league positions when the punishments were taken into account.

Barry said it was a major task, but the committee have sent out a warning for clubs to be more careful when filling in registration and transfer forms.

“The league has taken the opportunity to investigate all registered players involved with all clubs and we came across a few discrepancies,” said Barry.

“We have punished clubs and some have appealed. We want to ensure that the league goes on smoothly and ensure all clubs adhere by the rules.

“We got representatives from each club before the committee and spoke to them to discuss what we thought should happen, they had the opportunity to respond and then the committee made their decisions. Some small fines were also handed out.

“We adhere to our rules and County Antrim rules and we want our clubs to also,” said Barry.

“The league would also inform teams to be aware of their social media responsibilities,” Barry added.

In some ways it is a get tough policy, but it makes sense for clubs to fill out forms correctly - even cards on match days.

The message is simple from the committee - get your act together or take the punishment.

There was a committee meeting on Thursday to listen to appeals and some have been upheld, which may not show on League tables for a few weeks yet.

Warren YM moved to the top after gaining an extra two points and previous leaders, Braniel YM slipped to second place after being deducted six points.

The Premier Division had the most offenders with Glaston losing a massive nine points and FC Utd Lisburn six points.

Clonduff YM forfeited seven points to slip into the minus category and Belvoir FC, who lost six points are bottom of the Division in the minus category.

Two Division 1 teams lost points - Clonduff YM II having three points deducted and Belvoir FC II losing six points.

In Division 2 Clonduff YM III were deducted six points and the biggest reduction of ten points was given to 1st Lisburn II, who fell into the minus category, but the latter punishment is thought to be one of those reduced.

It is understood referees have also been asked to tighten up on reports.