WaiBOP United have been dealt a major blow ahead of hosting football heavyweights Waitakere United at Links Avenue in Tauranga yesterday.
After being on a high since the comprehensive 3-0 win over Wanderers SC on the same pitch a fortnight ago, the players and coaching staff learnt on Thursday thatthe three hard-earned points have been taken off them due to an administrative error.
New Zealand Football confirmed on Thursday that WaiBOP fielded an ineligible player in the win on November 22.
WaiBOP completed the transfer of Craig Wylie to the club prior to the match but did not submit the change to their named squad of eligible players or lodge the appropriate player agreement with New Zealand Football as required under competition regulations.
As a result, WaiBOP United will forfeit the match, have a 3-0 win credited to Wanderers SC, and have been fined $2000. WaiBOP United have the right to appeal the decision.
WaiBOP head coach Peter Smith was not able to comment on the decision or appeal process.
But, he said he had to manage the players carefully because they were hugely disappointed and frustrated by what had occurred.
"The players were very vocal in their thoughts, but as a coach I have to channel that aggression and turn it into a positive for the players," Smith said.
"It is a challenge for me as a coach, and, psychologically, it is hard when the players know they have done well and for the carpet to be pulled from their feet. But, to be fair, they have dug deep and they are a great group to deal with."
WaiBOP have to regroup quickly and focus on playing Waitakere, one of the top clubs in New Zealand. "Waitakere were in the O-League last year and are steeped in history," Smith said. "They have a strong tradition of doing well domestically since the national league started. They are a big drawcard to get them playing here in Tauranga.
"For us, it will be a tough game and they will be favourites. We will be the underdogs but that is a tag we will relish and we are looking forward to the game."
WaiBOP will play a match in Rotorua later this month.
