Harlow town facing further penalties after pitch installation failure
The club say that even if they secure a playoff place, they will not be offered promotion
In a statement released today, Harlow Town Football Club addressed the ongoing repercussions of their withdrawal from the Southern League at the end of 2022, citing "plentiful and broad-reaching penalties" that continue to affect the club.
The club detailed their efforts to rectify the pitch issues that led to their withdrawal, stating that they had undertaken a significant repair program at considerable expense. However, they also mentioned that they are still awaiting the outcome of a legal case related to the matter.
Among the penalties mentioned in the statement are fines, loss of revenue, reputational damage, and the inability to participate in the FA Cup. Additionally, the club revealed that they have been informed of a further penalty: being ineligible for promotion from their current division for at least one season after their withdrawal.
"We are unsure whether our fellow league members have been made formally aware of this fact," the statement read, "however, we think that highly unlikely based upon how teams have approached fixtures against us."
Despite sitting at the top of the league at present, Harlow Town clarified that even if they secure a playoff place, they will not be offered promotion. This, they asserted, was a "bitter pill to swallow," particularly considering their strong performance this season and the support they have garnered.
"It seems quite ridiculous that we could however fall foul of relegation if our league position dictated that," the statement continued.
Looking ahead, the club expressed gratitude for the support they have received and emphasized the importance of continued backing from fans. They acknowledged the squad's efforts in providing entertainment throughout the season and urged supporters to continue their backing into the next season.
"Our Home support has been phenomenal all season as has the incredible travelling support," the statement concluded, "and for that we thank you."
Despite the setbacks, Harlow Town remains focused on their upcoming opportunities in the League Cup competition and their remaining league fixtures, while also turning their attention towards the future of the club.