Havant and Waterlooville can confirm that they have received communication from Hampshire FA regarding fielding an ineligible player in the Russell Cotes Benevolent Cup this season. The club have taken the matter very seriously and have accepted the charge raised against them. The breach of rule relates to the playing of a loan player in this competition, which is prohibited despite being allowed in the County Senior Cup. This has led to the club being removed from the Competition.

General Manager Gary Pratt comments, “I apologise to all staff, players and our supporters for this oversight. The club have entered the competition and played games in a serious matter, only for a particular rule to be enforced which is different to others that we have entered with the same organisation. Ultimately, this error lies with me and for that I apologise. Whilst communicating with Hampshire FA, there is an acceptance that the rules for the competition will require changing to allow clubs above step 5 the opportunity to play their squad in full. The club entered the competition to provide valuable experience for our Academy teams to integrate with First Team sessions as well as provide valuable minutes for those on the fringes of the first team. It is a sad way to end the run in the competition, but we will look back at some of the positive performances that have taken place this season.”

The club wish the remaining clubs the best of luck in the competition.