CONCORD RANGERS will remain in the FA Trophy but will have to replay their third round qualifying tie against Sutton United after they fielded an ineligible player.
The Beach Boys won the initial tie 3-1 on Saturday, November 28 but were charged with fielding an ineligible player after Jordan Cox featured without being properly registered.
Chairman Ant Smith, in the absence of secretary Chris Crerie, wasn’t aware the striker, on loan from National League side Braintree Town, needed permission from the FA to play in the tie.
The governing body decided not to kick the Beach Boys out of the competition and ordered the Sutton tie to be replayed next Wednesday (December 16).
The game will be hosted by Sutton, who will get the gate receipts from the original match, and Concord will be responsible for their own travel costs. The tie will be played to a finish on the night.
The winners will host National League North side Lowestoft Town in the first round and chairman Smith said: “I’m pleased for all at the club that a correct decision has been made.”
