Vikings punished for over-use of ‘Raider’ Luke
FIELDING occasional Raiders back-rower Luke Skovronek once too often has cost St Jacques Vikings dear in their chase for promotion from Sussex Two.
But the Guernsey side’s swift admission of guilt has saved them two points which could, just, be vital in the closing weeks of the season.
The Vikings thought they had returned to the top of the table when they beat big rivals Plumpton at KGV last Saturday, but unknown to them at the time Skovronek had used up his quota of appearances in stepping down a level from Raiders action.
A subsequent investigation by Sussex RFU resulted in a the points deduction and the result being reversed.
The Vikings said in a statement: ‘An administrative error resulted in the fielding of a player which was contrary to league rules, regarding the number of matches a player is allowed to have played for Guernsey Raiders in the current season before playing for St Jacques Vikings.
‘Following the initial complaint, we worked with Sussex RFU to provide the facts, and following an internal investigation it emerged the club had breached the league rules. We immediately admitted the error to Sussex RFU and have worked with them honestly throughout the investigation process.
‘The penalty bestowed was to award the five match points to Plumpton RFC, however in view of our cooperation and honesty St Jacques Vikings received the maximum available two losing bonus points from the match.
‘This was an unintentional error and in no way were the club intentionally trying to break the league rules. We accept the punishment handed down by Sussex RFU and will ensure going forwards that all players are eligible to take the field for our club.’
Now back in third place, Vikings are back in action today, away at Newick, while Skovronek is in line to replace injured skipper Lewis Hillier as Raiders travel to Westcliff in London & South East Premier.
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