Now that the period for any appeals has expired Devon County FA would like to address the circumstances around the fine that was issued to Chulmleigh Youth for failure to play a County Cup fixture.

All Devon FA Youth County Cups are optional for teams to enter and when they choose to enter they agree to abide by the rules of the competition that are approved by member clubs annually.  All youth clubs had an extended period this season to confirm their entry prior to the first round draws being made.

Chulmleigh Youth confirmed that they had sufficient players (8 of their registered squad were available) to fulfil their County Cup fixture in accordance with the Laws of the Game but instead chose not to play, denying not only their players but the opposing teams players the chance to play in a Devon FA County Cup fixture. It has also been noted that the club played a North Devon Youth League fixture the following week with 8 players and won that match.

Therefore the club along with other clubs in the County that weekend were sanctioned in accordance with County Cup rules.

Chulmleigh Youth exercised their right to appeal to the Devon FA Cups Committee but this appeal was rejected as the team had sufficient players to complete the fixture but instead chose not to.  The club had a further right of appeal directly to the Devon FA Council but they chose not to take up this appeal.

Devon FA Cups Committee continuously review the County Cup rules to ensure that they are fit for purpose, protect the integrity of the competitions and are fair to all.