Buckie Thistle working to “get to the bottom” of shock SFA decision to kick club out of play-offs

BUCKIE Thistle are working hard to “get to the bottom” of the shock SFA decision to throw the club out of the promotion play-offs.

The Scottish Football Association announced on Thursday night - just two days before the match - that Buckie Thistle would not be eligible to take part in the play-off against Lowland League champions East Kilbride.

This was due to the club failing to obtain the relevant license. However, Buckie Thistle have today released a statement saying that they believed any decision on their Bronze Level Club License Award had been deferred until May 25.

The club posted a screenshot of a decision note on social media to highlight their case.

Buckie Thistle’s statement reads: "The club is endeavouring to get to the bottom of the decision to remove us from this weekend's play-off semi final against East Kilbride FC.

"Club officials attended meetings and had discussions with both the SPFL and SFA on Tuesday and Wednesday this week, but no indication was given at any point that Saturday's fixture was in doubt."

"The screenshot from the Decision Note issued by the SFA clearly states a decision on the Bronze Licence is deferred until the 15th of May.

“Buckie Thistle were awarded derogations on three of the items mentioned, and given until 15th May to resolve the medical items."

"After further discussions with the SFA this morning, we are now looking into the possibility of taking this to Arbitration, as per Article 99 of the SFA handbook."

"Further updates will be provided in due course."

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