Local Football Club Spartans fear being thrown out of this year’s Scottish Cup because they fielded an ineligible player.
The Scottish Football Association is investigating the registration documents for forward Keith McLeod, who has been with the club for 10 years. McLeod played in Saturday’s 2-0 win away to Culter in the second round.
Co-manager Mickey Lawson said: “We are hoping for a fine or a replay, but we fear we will be thrown out.”
Lawson, whose side have been drawn at home to First Division side Partick Thistle in the third round, explained that the problem could come down to a clerical oversight. The player’s registration form was sent to the SFA at the start of the season, in accordance with the national association’s rules.
But his form was sent back to the club because there was a mistake – and Lawson fears that it was never returned to Hampden Park.
Spartans chairman Craig Graham said “We are awaiting to be advised of the next steps.”
Graham did not wish to comment further until being contacted by the SFA.
However, the club’s website states: “Obviously we may not be in the next round.”
The SFA, which will call Spartans to state their case on 10 November, said in a statement: “A notice of complaint has been issued by the compliance officer to Spartans FC in relation to an alleged breach of Cup Competition Disciplinary Rules during the William Hill Scottish Cup match between Culter FC and Spartans FC on Saturday 22 October 2011.”
Midfielder Gavin Malin had put the visitors ahead from the penalty spot after 23 minutes in Aberdeen against the North Superleague junior champions.
Jordan Finnie sealed the victory after 83 minutes, but Spartans could now now miss out another day in the national spotlight against Thistle.
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