The administrator of Dundee FC, Brian Jackson, has described the 25-point penalty imposed on the club as a ‘serious blow’ to his efforts to save the club. It makes relegation to what is the third division of the Scottish system a real likelihood, making the club much less attractive to prospective investors. Even if things went well, it would take two years to reach the SPL.
The administrator of Dundee FC, Brian Jackson, has described the 25-point penalty imposed on the club as a ‘serious blow’ to his efforts to save the club. It makes relegation to what is the third division of the Scottish system a real likelihood, making the club much less attractive to prospective investors. Even if things went well, it would take two years to reach the SPL.
The administrator was expecting a 15 point deduction at worts and hoping for just 10. Heis considering an appeal or even a legal appeal. However, by his own admission, the conduct of the hearing was fair, even if the outcome was harsh.,
The Scottish Football League’s view is that lessons have not been learned. The SFL board added in their statement: ‘Clubs have to realise that they can’t treat their Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs tax obligations as something akin to a credit card.’
They have a point and certainly Revenue and Customs are fed up with that attitude being taken by football clubs. However, one has to draw an admittedly difficult balance between giving other clubs a warning and allowing a club that has got itself into difficulties a fighting chance of survival.