Ashton United points deduction

The Premier Division league table has now been amended to reflect the change.

The NPL will be making no further comment.

Ashton United have issued the following statement:

Unfortunately, due to an administrative error on the opening day of the 2022/23 season v Liversedge FC, Ashton United was guilty of fielding two ineligible players. Despite an appeal on the grounds of mitigating circumstances, to both the Northern Premier League and The FA in accordance with standardised rules, the club has been sanctioned with a fine and deduction of the three points gained in the fixture.
 
The outcome of this matter further emphasises the pressure placed upon club volunteers in the modern game to accurately and efficiently carry out their duties. The consequences of even the slightest mistake can be far reaching.
 
Whilst extremely disappointed with the outcome Ashton United accepts the breach of rules was entirely due to internal administrative process and circumstances. The club can only apologise to our players and fans.
 
Vice Chairman Steve Hobson said: “We stand full square behind our wonderful volunteers and will support them with appropriate training to ensure this matter is not repeated.
 
“The board would ask all our fans and the wider football family to understand, rally round and give their full support to the players and management after this most disappointing of outcomes.”