Thursday, 16th October 2008

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- Burton Mail

5th November 1990
Gresley Rovers were today hoping for a sensational return to the FA Vase – despite suffering a shock first round defeat at Mile Oak on Saturday.

The Moatmen have filed a complaint with the Football Association that could see the Tamworth club booted out of the competition for fielding an ineligible player.

They believe the Mile Oak keeper Gary Reeves was signed just 48 hours before Saturday’s Vase clash despite the fact that FA rules demand a minimum of seven days to have elapsed before a player becomes eligible.

Rovers have had their suspicions confirmed by the Scoreline Combination registrar and this morning faxed their protest to Lancaster Gate.

Gresley chairman Peter Hall said: “We are definitely protesting. If the boot had been on the other foot I’m sure Mile Oak would do the same. After all it is cheating.

“We will go by the rules but we expect Mile Oaks to be thrown out. We are confident that we will be playing in the next round.”

Moat Ground boss Frank Northwood shared Hall’s hopes. “It appears that Reeves only signed for Mile Oak on November 1st,” he said. “The rules clearly state that a player must be registered seven days before playing in the competition.”

Gresley’s fate is now in the hands of the FA.

An FA spokesman said: “I have been informed that Gresley Rovers will be submitting a protest. This will be investigated by the appropriate committee.”

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