South once more next season

Published on 22nd May 2008 in Sport

Goole AFC will play their UniBond League football in Division One South once more after the FA Leagues meeting convened last week to discuss the various structures for 2008-2009, writes Graeme Wilson

That is a disappointment generally especially when, on more than one occasion last term, everyone within the club was hoping a move north would take place if their promotion bid was unsuccessful, if only for more local 'derbies'.

However, once more the powers that be in London appear to be as popular as ever, even within the league hierachy, with several controversial points raised, and still to be so.

New opponents for the Vikings next season then include Glapwell, although they have locked horns before in the Northern Counties East League, but trips to Loughborough Rushall Olympic and Willenhall beg to suggest that the new league created last season now looks more east/west in configuration than north/south.

Goole will also play relegated Stamford, Lincoln United and Leek Town from the UniBond Premier Division, whilst Spalding remain in the league after Alsager were demoted due to ground irregularities.

However the main bone of contention appears to be the inclusion of Arngrove Northern League side Durham City in UniBond One North, despite missing the grading deadline set for new clubs to be admitted.

It begs the question why Retford, champions of UniBond One South could not be promoted under the same principle, or given more time, and the same with Alsager, although the league had stipulated to both teams that their grounds left them vulnerable.

Another fine mess at the end of a football season, and the situation is still not totally resolved. Oh, and there is the subjext of Halifax Town as well. Where will they go if they can resolve their financial difficulties, which have seen them leave the Blue Square Conference?

It is more gripping than a soap opera!