ALTRINCHAM were last night chucked out of the Nationwide Conference after losing their appeal against a League ruling to dock them 18 points.

A three-man FA Appeals Panel upheld the Conference's punishment for Altrincham failing to gain international clearance for former Accrington player James Robinson.

But there could yet be another twist if Scarborough fail to convince Conference bosses of their financial stability after coming out of administration earlier this month.

The Yorkshire club, who finished bottom, have until May 31 to make their case.

Second bottom Tamworth have already been reprieved after Canvey Island quit the Conference.

However, Robins chairman Geoff Goodwin is resigned to Altrincham's return to the Nationwide North after just one season in non league's top division and has ruled out a third appeal.

"We've had two bites of the cherry. We've got to put on a brave face and accept the verdict with dignity," he said.

"But to me the FA took the easy option. We thought the 18 points and é1,000 fine were excessive, they obviously didn't.

"We've now got to be bigger than that and look to the future. I just hope the community sticks with us.

Mission

"Our mission has been to clear all our debts and we've nearly done that.

"I reckon we're still two leagues ahead of where we should be because of our past financial problems.

"Our aim now is to win the Conference North next season and come straight back."

Goodwin also insisted that manager Graham Heathcote would still be in charge next season, though Heathcote said he was considering his duel role as secretary.

Heathcote, who flew out to Spain on a belated holiday last night, said: "I can't hide my disappointment at the decision. But my concscience is clear and I think there has been a massive injustice.

"I also think it sends out a massive, massive warning to every secretary in the country that before they sign a player they have to contact the FA to find out if international clearance is required.

"We signed James Robinson in good faith but I feel we've been led down the garden path.

"I'll certainly consider my future in the next two weeks. I don't necessarily see why it should affect the managerial side. But as secretary I'm not so sure I'd like to be put in this position again."

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