DLTFC v BRIGHTON CELTIC (08.11.08)

Well following the recent uncertainty with the numbers of players for each squad, the Board's decision to withdraw a squad from Division 3 to concentrate on Division 3A is already proving to be a more workable arrangement all round. The home game against Brighton Celtic was a very hard fought, though evenly balanced, match with the winning goal for the visitors coming only in the dieing minutes of the game. Ian Kane and Jay Kane, working together, fielded a team that has great potential and indeed, very much so, especially when those injured over the past few weeks return before the Christmas break. Final score: DLTFC 0 : Brighton Celtic 1. Next Saturday the squad travels to meet Palmerstown United - kick off 14.00hrs

Withdrawal of Team from Division 3

It is with sincere regret and considerable disappointment that, on behalf of this Club, we must advise the League and our fellow clubs that due to circumstances beyond our control, the Club has withdrawn its team from participating in Division 3 (Saturday).

The reasons that have impacted greatly on this most unfortunate decision include, an excessive number of injuries incurred over the past few weeks, the continued dispersal of the asylum / refugee community around the country resulting in the loss of key players and players being actively induced to join other clubs within the greater Dún Laoghaire area. Such losses to a small club like ours have serious and detrimental repercussions, of which, this decision to withdraw a team from Division 3 is an inevitable negative outcome.

The above decision will allow the Board of this Club and its management team to concentrate on Division 3A for the remainder of this season and to build towards restoring this Club’s level of participation in the Leinster Senior League for next season.

We most sincerely regret any inconvenience caused and thank all concerned for their kind assistance, advice and continued understanding on this matter.

Michael Merrigan
Chairman

04. November 2008

Review of Squads

At the next meeting of the Board which is scheduled for Monday 17th November, the recent problems in fielding full squads in both Division 3 and 3A will be considered by the Board. An investigation into the effectiveness of the current arrangements and structures will, no doubt, form a part of any review of the squads that may be ordered by the Board. Whilst, it is understood that a number of players are injured and indeed, a few others have been "poached" by other clubs, the remaining members of both squads have been sporadic in their commitment which is causing considerable difficulties for the managers. It will be with deep disappointment and regret that the the Board could be forced to reduce the squads in order to field an effective and strong team each week. But if this option is the only one available, the Board will have no choice but to advise the Leinster Senior League accordingly. However, in the run-up to the Board meeting on Monday 17th November, both managers will be expected to contact each member of their squad to ascertain their current commitment to the Club. This will allow the Board to review the position in the light of the information provided by the managers.