Conference chiefs discuss Exeter situation
The Conference chairmen are to meet tomorrow to discuss the possible ramifications of Exeter's impending legal action against the league reports the BBC. Graham Turner, the Hereford United chairman, is expected to attend the meeting at Telford.
Exeter are taking the Conference to court to contest a 12-point penalty imposed for going into administration and a ruling that all football debts must be paid in full.
Conference clubs have already been warned that they will be asked to pay up to £25,000 to cover legal bills.
There is widespread concern about how the matter is unfolding. One chairman who has commented is David Andrews of Dagenham. "I don't know the exact ins and outs. We have had a couple of letters and I've read things in the press, but that's not the same as being told by the (Conference) board.
"This ruling could put a lot of clubs in trouble. I'm hoping to find things out tomorrow. I don't think any of us is flush and this sort of money could be severe for a lot of clubs."
Exeter insist their action is necessary to try and safeguard the club's future.
But they have upset several of their Conference colleagues, particularly as the 12-point deduction was written into competition rules last summer when Exeter joined the league following their relegation from Division Three.
"Exeter were there and voted on the day and I think you should go along with the majority," added Andrews, ahead of the league's scheduled half-yearly meeting in Telford.
The Conference clubs are also unhappy that they are having to defend the football creditors' rule, which is applied across football.
"It could have big ramifications," said Andrews. "It's a big issue which could involve clubs from the Premiership to divisions one, two and three. It could become a test case so why we as a Conference are fighting it, I'm sure will be brought up."
The Inland Revenue are taking a counter action against Exeter over preferred creditor status. Margate's on-going ground problems and the likely make-up of the league next season are also expected to be discussed.