Scott sums it up at hearing

 

By Teo Pellizzeri

October 16 2007

Shepparton News

Shepparton's administration and players were gagged from commenting on last night's ruling awarding it the North Eastern Soccer League premiership.

Legal adviser to the AFL Players Association Andrew Scott of Moores Legal represented Shepparton at last night's hearing and spoke on the club's behalf.

In a statement released to The News Scott said Shepparton believed the protest against its grand final win by Yoogali Soccer Club was wrong.

"Under the North Eastern league rules framework a process had to be followed via the appeals board," Scott said.

"Shepparton sought legal advice and followed it and is naturally pleased with the outcome.

"Referees have a difficult job and are not infallible.

"But in the interests of giving immediate certainty to the game they have to have the final say when it comes to decisions in actual play."

Present at the hearing for Shepparton were committee members Chris Davkovski and Chris Radevski and playing coach Andy Ingham.

Yoogali was represented by president Paul Fisher, secretary Adrian Fanani and Sante Donadel.

Scott and the independent appeals board of Larry Smith, George Tepus and chairman Bob Schirmer spent the majority of the hearing in discussion over the five points of appeal Shepparton presented.

The appeals board then returned its ruling that Shepparton keep the premiership following a brief recess.

Fisher said Yoogali was disappointed with the decision, but would not take any further action.

"Our intention is to play on in the North Eastern league next year," Fisher said.

"We believe in the administration of the league.

"Right now we have to address the morale of our playing group, this is a second hit for them after the first hit of losing the grand final to begin with."

Scott refused to answer any further questions.