Pyramid play-offs in doubt as chairman steps down from SPFL board

Brechin chairman Ken Ferguson has stepped down from the Scottish Professional Football League board ahead of a decision which could potentially save his club from relegation.
Brechin City chairman Ken Ferguson has stepped down from the SPFL board. Picture: SNSBrechin City chairman Ken Ferguson has stepped down from the SPFL board. Picture: SNS
Brechin City chairman Ken Ferguson has stepped down from the SPFL board. Picture: SNS

The SPFL board will decide on April 19 whether a pyramid play-off can take place.

Brora Rangers and Kelty Hearts have been crowned champions of the Highland and Lowland League, respectively, after the seasons were cut short. The two clubs were also declared champions last season but the cancellation of the play-offs denied them the chance to face off for the right to play Brechin for a place in the league.

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Ferguson said in a statement: "In view of the fact that Brechin City are currently 42nd in the League, it is appropriate for me to step aside at this time – and to devote all my time and energy into ensuring that Brechin City do not finish bottom of League 2 this season."

Kelty revealed on Thursday that they had received permission from the Scottish FA to resume training ahead of the play-off games and expected to receive news on the play-off by the end of the week.

The SPFL has now declared it is "considering several issues" relating to the pyramid play-offs and is not in a position to announce any dates.

A statement added that the board would determine whether each of Kelty, who played 13 Lowland League games, and Brora, who only managed three, meet the membership criteria.

A spokesman added: "Given that there are a number of uncertainties, including whether League Two clubs will play 22 or 18 games this season, we are not in a position to announce dates for pyramid play-off ties this season.

"Whilst we understand that this lack of certainty will be disappointing to supporters of Brora Rangers and Kelty Hearts, it is important that we are entirely fair to all clubs, including the SPFL club that finishes bottom of League Two this season.

"Our approach has always been to apply the rules that have been agreed by all member clubs, as well as the pyramid play-off rules agreed between the SPFL, the Scottish FA, the Lowland League and the Highland League, and we will do so again this season."

Clyde's Gordon Thomson will take Ferguson's place on the board until the SPFL's annual general meeting in July.

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