The LCC has already overturned one result due to a failure to provide registration cards for checking. However, very few teams seem to be doing as requested and very few clubs appear to be taking any steps to ensure their teams comply with the competition rules.

I am aware of a number of instances where suspicion has been cast on certain teams who appear to be playing ineligible players. It’s little point clubs then running to the LCC with accusations if their team officials don’t even bother to check cards prior to the match. If you’re happy for your team to be cheated by people who can’t follow the rules then you shouldn’t be coaching or managing a team. In the case of incidents during or after matches or possibly even cautions/send offs no one can be sure who is involved if the registration cards are not checked for a visual check and then against the match card for authenticity.

I am now requesting that ground officials ensure that the proper card check take place before each match. I’ll also be requesting from the MDFRA that none of their members commence a match without seeing the card check take place.

Be aware also that if you fill out a match card without assigning a player a registration number in the appropriate place on the match card you are playing an INELIGIBLE player. I will be asking the LCC to rule that no registration number on the match card to be dealt with in the same manner as “no card, no play”.

Please ensure that each of your competition teams, especially All Age, is aware of what is required of them. I hope to see a big improvement in the procedure from this coming weekend.

Regards,

Ross Anderson

Competition Manager

MDSFA