The New England Nomads and now the Narrabri Eagles have been no shows for clashes against the Saints in Inverell blaming lack of player numbers for the forfeits.
While the Inverell Saints F.C. does sympathise with the clubs when hit by hard times in respect to player numbers, we also believe there is no substantial penalty to the forfeiting teams.
Travelling teams who forfeit lose 4 points and that's it. The home team who receives the forfeit gains four competition points but loses the chance to get match fit, keep sponsors happy, promote the game in town and build it's financial position. Clubs like ours depend on home game revenue to survive and having what has happened to us in recent weeks I believe it is not good enough.
It's time the League took a harder stance at forfeits. Having forfeits only cheapens the competition and does nothing for teams who are awarded the 4 points.
I'm sure if other Clubs went through the same circumstances as we have in recent weeks, they'd also have a sour opinion of forfeits.
The Inverell Saints will endeavour to meet our commitments this year and hopefully these recent incidents will only further cement our resolve to be successful this year and for years to come.
By Gerry Taveira
President
Last Modified on 30/07/2007 11:51