Southampton face relegation after 10 point penalty
Firstly, I have nothing against Southampton FC. I am not a supporter, but also hold no grudges – in fact, I had the pleasure of watching one of the best games of football ever at their ground in 2005.
However, I am pleased they have had this punishment. Every other club that has gone into administration in recent years has faced a penalty, so why should Southampton be any different.
While this may sound a little hypocritical, I am against point’s penalties as a rule. Football clubs go into administration, and therefore face point deductions, due to poor financial management from the owners – most of whom have left the club by the time the ship has finally sunk and the administrators are called in.
Why do clubs current owners, players and fans have to suffer due to the incompetence of previous regimes? The biggest example of this is at Leeds United with Peter Ridsdale.
Ridsdale racked up debts of £100million. He resigned in 2002, with a multi-million pound payoff. In 2007, under new owners, Leeds went into administration and faced point’s penalties which amounted to -25 across 2 seasons. At the same time, former owner Ridsdale had already spent his Leeds payoff in purchasing Cardiff City FC, who are currently challenging for promotion to the Premier League. Something’s not right…
Southampton are in a similar position due to mistakes by previous owners. Luton Town have lost their football league status due to the stupidity of former board members.
Punish the rich fat cats who cause the mess – NOT THE FANS.