King’s Lynn Town will not appeal UCL punishment for playing suspended Hughes against Boston Town

King's Lynn Town will not appeal against the United Counties League's decision to punish them for fielding Rob Hughes while he was suspended.

The Linnets had the three points won from the game in which Hughes played - against Boston Town on October 25 - deducted.

However, the UCL, admitting there were 'significant mitigating circumstances' surrounding the saga, have ordered Lynn to replay the game - effectively giving Gary Setchell's title-chasing side the chance to reclaim all three points.

Linnets chiefs were expected to meet this evening to discuss the matter but moments ago released the following statement.

'After due consideration and consultation, King's Lynn Town Football Club have decided not to appeal against the UCL's decision in reference to Rob Hughes and will replay the away match against Boston Town,' said the official club statement.

'The club and their solicitor have acknowledged that the disciplinary committee have given fair regard to the mitigating circumstances, and have acknowledged their decision is fair in all the circumstances.

'The club would like to thank the UCL Committee for their time and acknowledging that King's Lynn Town club officials did everything possible in these unfortunate circumstances. The club duly hopes that a repeat of this kind can be avoided in the future.'

Lynn always insisted that at the time of selecting Hughes, the Lincs FA had no record of the midfielder picking up his fifth booking for former club Spalding against Sleaford on October 4.

Boss Setchell, whose side won 4-0 at Thrapston Town last night, described the situation as a 'one in a million' incident.

Lynn will now replay the game at a later date and with the original game having ended in a 1-0 win, could even find themselves improving their goal difference.