The Conference board has admitted, on it's own official website, that it is concerned about the current state of the international clearance rules - but is powerless to to anything about it.
A statement on the site suggests that it was advised by lawyers to follow the rulebook, suggesting that the board were not in favour of such a massive deduction. The statement reads:
Whilst the Board accepted there were mitigating circumstances, based on legal advice, it was compelled by Rule 6.8 to deduct points gained, resulting in the deduction of 18 points gained in the 16 matches and a total fine of £1,000.
The Football Conference is concerned with the current operation of the system of International Clearance, which is beyond its control, and the impact that it has on its clubs. It is anticipated that Altrincham will exercise its right to appeal to the FA.
Over 2,700 signatures are now on the online petition, having been set up less than 24 hours ago.