“Not responsible”: Jersey Bulls appeal scuppers Combined Counties League play-offs

The end of the 2024/25 Combined Counties League Premier Division South has been thrown into chaos after the play-offs were postponed.

Jersey Bulls won their final game of the season, relegating Sandhurst Town in the process, in front of 1,800 home supporters at the weekend but had been notified of a points deduction.

The win made the Channel Island side the title on goal difference from Redhill, but a three point deduction for fielding an ineligible player this season would drop them down to third behind FA Vase finalists AFC Whyteleafe.

The club however have appealed the penalty citing “lack of clarity” on the number of yellow cards the player in question has received.

Writing on social media, Combined Counties League chairman Bob Dalling said: “The Combined Counties League, with The FA announces the Play-off Semi-Finals for its Premier South Division set for this weekend, are postponed.

“The issues reported are not the responsibility of, and not in the control of the League. The County FA are investigating.”

The full Jersey Bulls statement, which came out the day before the Sandhurst fixture said: “This evening Jersey Bulls FC have been notified of a 3-point deduction and a £120 for fielding an ineligible player against Tooting and Mitcham FC recently.

“Administrative staff at Jersey Bulls FC realised an error had been made and reported it to the League and Jersey FA immediately. Despite efforts to set out the significant mitigation the decision based on the lack of clarity on the number of yellow cards, the Combined Counties League have confirmed the 3-point deduction.

“As the club considers it’s options, we’d like to apologise to our amazing players and coaching staff, and ask that our fantastic supporters rally behind the team at this crucial stage of the season.”

The postponement of the play-offs affects Redhill – who would become champions if the deduction is upheld, Whyteleafe, Jersey, Cobham and Fleet Town.