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Steven Crawford

Points blow for Portadown as NIFL make decision in eligibility row

Portadown have been docked three points and fined £500 after they were found guilty of a breach of Premiership Rules NI Football League Competitions Committee.

NIFL opened an investigation into the Ports' 3-1 victory over Newry City last Sunday.

Before the game at The Showgrounds Alberto Balde was replaced post-deadline on the teamsheet in the starting eleven by Leo Donnellan.

This took place with the permission of the referee.

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Balde went on to play in the game replacing the injured Donnellan in the 28th minute.

Goals from Lee Upton, Greg Moorhouse and Jordan Jenkins has seemingly secured a first win of the season for Niall Currie's men, however the points will now go to Newry City after NIFL confirmed they had been awarded a 3-0 win.

NIFL's rules state: "Should any nominated player or substitute sustain an injury or become otherwise incapacitated after the submission of the teamsheet to the referee and before the kick-off, he may be replaced provided that the referee and the opposing club are informed prior to kick-off."

In a statement released on Friday afternoon NIFL confirmed the Ports had been "found in breach of Rule 20(h)".

The statement read: "The eligibility of Portadown player Alberto Balde Almanzar was raised in relation to his appearance in the Danske Bank Premiership match against Newry City on 4 December 2022.

"In accordance with Rule 9 of the NIFL Premiership Rules 2022/23, the NIFL Competitions Committee were called to review all relevant documentation alongside the relevant rules and regulations.

"The case was considered by the Committee today (Friday 9 December) and has ruled that Portadown FC has been found in breach of Rule 20(h) of the NIFL Premiership Rules 2022/23

"As a result of this breach, Portadown have been fined £500 and the match awarded to Newry City with a 3-0 scoreline."

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