Doncaster Rovers: 'We are pleased that these matters have now been resolved' - Bolton Wanderers react to decision over cancelled game with Rovers

Bolton Wanderers have declared themselves ‘pleased’ after it was ruled their cancelled game against Doncaster Rovers should be replayed.
University of Bolton StadiumUniversity of Bolton Stadium
University of Bolton Stadium

The decision of an independent disciplinary panel assigned by the EFL to decide on the outcome and any punishment due to Bolton announced on Thursday night that the Lancashire club would receive a suspended points deduction and a fine while the match should be arranged.

Bolton took the unilateral decision to cancel Rovers’ trip to the University of Bolton Stadium scheduled for August 20 with less than 36 hours notice and without forewarning.

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Wanderers subsequently were the subject of a takeover, taking them out of administration and allowing them to sign players – including Rovers’ Ali Crawford on a free transfer. They have since overturned a 12 point deduction handed down for entering administration.

The independent disciplinary panel – which met last Thursday – handed down a three point deduction, suspended for 18 months, plus a £50,000 fine as punishment for the cancellation of the fixture with Rovers.

In a statement in response to the decision, current Bolton chairperson Sharon Brittan said: “We acknowledge the decision made by the panel and are pleased that these matters, which occurred under the previous administrations of the club, have now been resolved.

“The club was represented by our Legal Counsel and Matthew Bennett from Centrefield LLP whom I must thank for their professional advice and guidance throughout.

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“Our collective attention must now be fully focussed on Keith Hill, his staff and players as we look to get as many points as we can to climb the Sky Bet League One table.

Bolton Wanderers supporters and staff have shown tremendous patience and passion throughout and we are now looking forward to working together to continue the rebuilding of this great football club.”

Rovers – who stated from the start they believed they should be awarded the win for the cancelled fixture – are set to make a statement on the situation on Friday