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Boston Busted Pilgrims' Progress Ended? By John Snow, 24 May 2002
They were searching for evidence of out-of-contract payments to players. An FA spokeswoman said: “Today the FA commenced an investigation into suspected irregularities regarding players’ contracts at Boston United and the investigation will be continuing. We won’t be saying anything else until the investigation is concluded.” Boston manager, Steve Evans, (who was not present while the raid took place) stated, “I am not at the club and have no idea what is happening." If the FA find Boston guilty of misconduct then they could strip them of points. You will recall that they finished champions by goal difference alone, tying on points with Dagenham and Redbridge. Any points deducted will bar them from promotion. Unlike Chesterfield last season, they have no cushion so just one point deduction would be enough to spoil their tea-party. It is unclear at this early stage what the implications would be. It is unlikely that Dagenham and Redbridge would be offered promotion instead, although Halifax are in turmoil as they have sacked all their playing staff and recently lost their chairman as well. But Halifax's website doesn't seem so upbeat about this possibility, their lead article on this says "Would staying in the football league be the best thing for the Shaymen as with no team or manager they would surely struggle to get together a team that could compete in the Third Division." A quick perusal on the Digger Dagger messageboard has quite a lively thread between (presumably) Boston and Daggers' fans with 'sour grapes' being mentioned a few times! The Boston site adds nothing more except to say, "The FA officials met with club officials and players for approximately three hours, further interviews are due to be held next week. The club will be advised of the results of the investigation in due course." It is not my place to make any comment on this, but I shall look forward to the possibility of playing Boston next season and wish Dagenham and Redbridge the best of luck in securing their well-earned place in the Football League. Links confguide.com |
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The 2001-02 Conference
champions may find themselves battling out yet another
season in the Conference. This follows from dramatic
raids by FA officials at the club's York Street ground.
Various players were also called in for questioning.