‘Classy’ East Fife the definition of sporting integrity, say fans

All SPFL sides have been asked to vote on a resolution to conclude the 2019/20 season now with current Championship, League One and League Two places declared as final and the remaining tranches of prize money paid to all member clubs based on these positions.

While the vast majority supported the resolution, the Bayview club confirmed over the weekend that it was one of a minority to reject.

The club’s argument was made pretty clear by chairman Jim Stevenson who said it was simply wrong to relegate fellow clubs without the full 36 game season being finished.

Mr Stevenson added: “This would have seen Dundee United, Raith Rovers and Cove Rangers promoted while Partick Thistle and Stranraer would be relegated.

“My board met twice via video conferences on Thursday and Friday to discuss and agree our stance.

“Although we have no issue with current league positions being declared final from a prize money perspective, the overwhelming consensus was that we could not vote in favour of a resolution that would see fellow clubs relegated without the full conclusion of the 36 game season.

“You will have seen that three League One and Two clubs voted against the resolution and I can confirm, to avoid any misinformation or speculation, that we were one of the three.”

No decision had been made at the time of writing on what happens next with Mr Stevenson saying the club is now awaiting further guidance from the SPFL.

The Fifers have also confirmed that all first team players and management staff have been placed on furlough.

Despite East Fife being in the minority on their decision not to back the resolution, praise has been high from all quarters on their stance.

Fife fans have been quick to throw their backing behind the club.

Supporter reaction:

Neil Donaldson⛳@neildon63 - Excellent statement by the chairman

Zach @OfficialZed - Excellent statement. Integrity over selfishness 100%.

Stuart Mclean @smclean1986 - Definition of sporting integrity on that statement

BJW @DDLL42 - an excellent statement by the Chairman and the right decision has been made ‘mon the Fife’

One team in glasgow @ptfc1876thistle - That’s how a proper football club thinks. Times like these you need people like this! Well done East Fife

Andy The Dee @dundeeandy - Well said East Fife.

RyanClarkKent 1872 @1872Rck - Well said. Respect at putting sporting integrity at the forefront of your decision

Steven Reid @TranquilityFire - Classy statement. And well done to their playing squad too. Nice touch.

• An online fundraiser set up to help the club out financially continues to gather pace.

The Go Fund Me page had originally set a target of £5000 to help the club with essential bills but has now broke through that and has already raised almost £7000.

Visit www.gofundme.com/f/supportthemightyfife

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