Halifax have been disqualified from the 2010 Carnegie Challenge Cup after the RFL Board of Directors ruled that they fielded an ineligible player in their fourth round tie against Swinton Lions on Friday April 16
writes John Ledger.
The player, Michael Ostick, had previously played for Rochdale Hornets in a third round tie against FC Lezignan on Sunday March 7.
The RFL Board of Directors has also ruled that Halifax’s most recent opponents in the Carnegie Challenge Cup, Swinton Lions, should be reinstated into the competition.
Swinton Lions will now play Batley Bulldogs in a Carnegie Challenge Cup fifth round tie on Wednesday May 19.
RFL Chairman Richard Lewis said: “The rules governing player eligibility in the Carnegie Challenge Cup clearly state that when a team is found to have fielded an ineligible player they will be disqualified from that year’s tournament.
“Halifax’s action leaves the RFL Board of Directors with no alternative but to disqualify the club and reinstate their most recent opponents.”
The matter has now been referred to the RFL Compliance Manager for further investigation into whether, by fielding an ineligible player on Friday April 16, Halifax are guilty of misconduct.
Halifax RLFC have announced that as a direct consequence of their disqualification from the Carnegie Challenge Cup their Head Coach Matt Calland has been suspended pending the outcome of an internal inquiry.
A further announcement will follow.
Meanwhile, members of the Playing Staff have indicated their intention to put this setback behind them, and to bounce back with victory over Barrow Raiders in Sunday’s Co-operative Championship match at The Shay (3.00pm).
