Portadown to consider appealing IFA sanctions

on Monday night night two, of what is understood to be four matters against the Mid Ulster club, ‘were proven’ at an IFA disciplinary committee meeting.

Following the hearing in Belfast, at which a representative of Portadown was present with their legal representative, the Ports were fined £10,000 fine and banned from signing professional contracts until June 1, 2017. If the club pay £5,000 of the fine within 14 days, the other half will be suspended until June 1, 2017.

In a statement the IFA said: “The Discipline Committee heard this matter this evening with representation from Portadown FC and their senior counsel.

“In light of the evidence, the committee found two matters proven and taking into account the evidence presented and the nature of the offences, imposed the following sanctions:

“A fine of £10,000, £5,000 payable within 14 days and £5,000 suspended until 1 June 2017.

“A prohibition on Portadown FC from signing any new professional players on a new professional contract until 1 June 2017.”

But shortly after Portadown FC posted a statement on the club website: “The Board of Portadown FC are actively considering an appeal against the decision. A further statement will be issued in the coming days.”