Faye Lygo steps down as Doncaster Rovers Belles chair lady - and takes parting shot at the FA

Belles celebrated winning the FAWSL2 title earlier today after beating Oxford Women 4-0 in their final game of the season.

But the club will remain in the second tier next season for financial reasons.

In a statement confirming her intention to step down, Lygo has again taken a swipe at the FA’s governance of the game and says it is ‘unfair’ Belles will not be promoted to FAWSL1 on merit.

She also apologised to Belles supporters that the club could only afford to apply for a second tier licence for the 2018/19 season.

“Having now almost reached the end of my five year term it is time for me to step aside and we now begin a search for a new Chair of Doncaster Rovers Belles,” said Lygo in a statement.

“For me it has been an amazing rollercoaster journey from enforced relegation, promotion to WSL1, relegation and now Champions trying to juggle all my duties living 240 miles from Doncaster!

“This club is an amazing institution for Doncaster with truly exceptional people. Our new Chair will be somebody who not only truly understands the spirit of this fine club but somebody who has outstanding fundraising capabilities and can be more hands on at the club.

“It is really unfair that the Belles are not being promoted today on the basis of their football abilities.

“Sadly, it is money in the bank that counts for promotion and I am sorry to have disappointed fans that we could only afford to bid to retain a second tier licence.

“I congratulate Brighton for meeting those requirements and for effectively being promoted ahead of us today.

“So we begin the search for a new Chair of the Belles. I will remain as a strong supporter of the Belles and I am looking forward to watching the games next season as an ordinary supporter.”