Mattie is Banned
The bad news came on the same day that the Football Association confirmed that the takeover bid of the Yeltz by the Ingram Brothers is now complete.
Graham Ingram commented, "I spoke to Mattie earlier today and although many suspected he would be banned naturally he’s gutted. As a first year manager we supported him through some tough times last season and he responded by keeping the players focused on playing which resulted in a better than expected season. Although he’s admitted what he did was wrong he claims there were mitigating circumstances and it’s a real shame that he’s had to resign at a time when the clubs problems look finally behind us. We thank him for all he has done over the past year and wish him every success in the future.”
Godfrey Ingram speaking from Los Angeles said “. It’s a real tough break for the club but we fully respect the decision of the FA, there are clear guidelines on betting activities and all players and officials involved in football clubs must adhere to them. However I think it needs to be acknowledged that the charges relate to a time when Mattie was neither a player or manager at Halesowen and we have found his attitude and behavior to be exemplary. He proved he's a very promising manager and hopefully he'll bounce back from this. We will act rapidly to ensure a new management structure is in place as soon as possible".
The club has announced that in the interim period the players will continue to be prepared for the new season by club coaches Rob Elmes and Tony Thorpe.