Banbridge Town Football Club have responded to the Northern Ireland Football League’s (NIFL) decision to impose a 12 point deduction and monetary fine following an investigation into the club’s conduct.
On Monday October 13, the organising body of top level domestic men and women’s league football in Northern Ireland confirmed that an Independent Committee appointed by the Board have investigated and ruled on a breach of Premier Intermediate League Rules & Regulations.
The committee was tasked with investigating payments made to players within the County Down team which plays within the Mid Ulster Football League.
According to rules within the Mid Ulster Football League for players of “amateur status”, it states: “The Mid Ulster Football League is an amateur competition, as ratified by its members. No payments shall be made to players under any circumstances, except for approved expenses.
“Any club found in breach of this rule will face immediate expulsion from the MUFL. Additionally, any personnel whether players, officials, or otherwise who are involved in such a breach will be subject to a two-year suspension from participation in any MUFL affiliated club, in any capacity.
“All matters related to violations of this rule will be reported to the Irish Football Association for further action.”
In a statement published on their website, the NIFL explained in regards to their investigation: “The Committee was appointed for the purposes of investigating Banbridge Town FC in respect of undisclosed payments to players in the Season 2024/2025 following information provided to the League.
“The Committee considered all relevant documentation alongside the relevant rules and regulations ruling that Banbridge Town FC has been found in breach of Rule 41 (b) and 42 (a) of the NIFL Premier Intermediate League Rules.
“As a result of this breach, the Committee imposes an immediate twelve point deduction for the Season 2025/2026 and a fine of £1,000.
“The Club has the right to appeal this decision to the Irish FA.”
Banbridge Town Football Team have now responded to the decision publicly, stating: “Banbridge Town Football Club acknowledges the findings of the NIFL Commission which have been made public earlier today [October 13].
“The club has found itself subject to a NIFL Commission investigation concerning aspects of our financial operations during the 2024 -25 season. As acknowledged by the Commission, the club has sought to engage with this process in an open and transparent manner and acknowledges responsibility in certain aspects of the club’s administration, which fell below the expected requirements during this period.
“Our own findings have informed significant reforms in how the club is now administered to ensure that such shortcomings do not occur again.
“On the pitch, the 12 point deduction will increase the challenges our First Team face this season. However, the club continues to work on our long term strategy for football operations. The club remains committed to this strategy in light of this sanction.
“The club will take some time to review the Commissioners’ decision before issuing any further comments.”
