Football League Proposal

By: Bill Osborne
Date: 06/05/2004

THE Football Supporters Federation is inviting all fans and supporters organisations to express a view on a proposal, which could adversely affect the Mariners if we are relegated.

The FSF have not been informed or consulted by the football authorities in any way, but the information has been passed to them and they believe it is accurate.

FSF is inviting all fans to express their views and they will subsequently be in contact with the authorities before the League's AGM saying it's not an ideal situation; obviously the lack of consultation once again is more than disappointing but the FSF is determined that fans views will be heard.

The details;

At a Football League meeting earlier this year it was proposed at a second division meeting that only three clubs should be promoted and relegated between divisions 2 and 3. This is now to be put forward as a formal proposal by the Second Division clubs at the League's AGM in June.

The reasoning put forward is that it standardises movements between all the divisions (although not the Conference!)

The cynical view is that it's about reducing the risks of relegation and protecting income streams, a view reinforced by a refusal (and a proposal by Wycombe two years ago) to consider increasing the number of promotion and relegation places.

The FSF believes this is an issue in which fans should definitely have a say. Promotion and relegation is a key part of competitive football, maintaining interest and excitement, and it can be argued that this proposal will adversely impact on that.

There are contrary arguments and the FSF look forward to hearing supporters views, whether directly affected or not.

Please respond to: fsfnews@fsf.org.uk

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