AFC Wimbledon have seen their 18 point deduction for fielding an ineligible player reduced to 3 by the FA. The Ryman League imposed the penalty after the club failed to get the correct international clearance for former Cardiff player Jermaine Darlington, but the FA ruled the punishment was excessive 'given the specific and unusual circumstances' even though the deduction was wholly acceptable in accordance with Ryman League rules. The £400 fine remains in place.
The judgement gives some hope to Accrington in their case with the Football League, which will be heard on Friday. The club have also lodged an appeal over David Brown's red card against the Bulls at the weekend, while winger Sean Doherty is expected to go on trial to Ipswich this week. Darlington have lost the services of loan defender Ian Miller as parent club Ipswich need him to cover for injuries.
Stevenage have extended the contract of manager Mark Stimson until 2010. The former Grays chief has taken the club to the final of the FA Trophy and the Hertfordshire side are poised for a late run into the play-offs.