Gateshead and Welling charged after fielding ineligible players

Gateshead and Welling United have been deducted a point apiece by the National League for a rule breach, the league organisation confirmed on Wednesday.

According to a statement released on Wednesday, National League side Gateshead "were deemed guilty of one breach of Rule 6.9 for failing to ensure all players were not under suspension prior to participating in a match – therefore fielding an ineligible player."

The Tynesiders, who were also fined by £750, move back into the relegation zone in the fifth tier as a result of the deduction – slipping from 20th to 21st place below Dorking Wanderers.

National League South side Welling were charged for failing to ensure a player had the required international transfer certificate prior to participating in two league games.

Welling said in a statement: "Welling United can confirm that, due to an administrative error, they have been charged by the National League for breaching Rule 6.9 (fielding an ineligible player) and have received a one-point deduction. 

"An independent panel ruled that the club were deemed guilty of failing to ensure a player had the required international transfer certificate prior to participating in two matches. 

"The charge relates to Jay Simpson’s involvement in the games against Dartford and Slough Town, with the panel concluding that the one point gained, from the second game, should be deducted from the club’s record from the 2022/23 season."

The Wings remain 15th in the National League South despite the penalty, on 40 points.

National League Statement: Outcome of club charges relating to the fielding of an ineligible player.

— The National League (@TheVanaramaNL) March 1, 2023