Falkirk 'reluctantly accept' SPFL vote outcome but coronavirus impact on Scottish football 'should have been handled better'

Dundee's casting vote was made earlier today and cast in favour of the motion to end the season and take the league placings outside of the top tier as final.

That means outwith possible league reconstruction, Falkirk face another year in League One as the motion did not include the post-season play-offs being contested.

The Bairns stated their disappointment at the defeat of the motion, which was supported by 15 of the 20 lower league clubs, eight in the Championship and 10 in the top division. However they added they would 'reluctantly accept' the outcome of the vote and stressed a need for league reconstruction.

In a statement the Bairns said: "Falkirk FC voted against the resolution put forward last week by the SPFL board to end the current season. After days of uncertainty filled with rumour and speculation, we now know that Dundee FC have voted in favour of the resolution. We are disappointed at the result but reluctantly accept the outcome.

"Discussions with the SPFL and other clubs over the past few days have promised serious consideration of league reconstruction for next season, which we at Falkirk have advocated for many years. The SPFL statement reflects that commitment and we welcome the announcement that Ann Budge of Hearts and Les Gray of Hamilton are to lead the reconstruction task force. We trust that these discussions will begin as soon as possible and we will, of course, contribute positively.

"It is our strong belief that urgent and meaningful league reconstruction is essential given the disruption caused by the early ending of the season and the unfair consequences for many clubs, Falkirk included.

"The impact of the pandemic on Scottish football could and should have been handled better. It is now vital that league reconstruction takes place as soon as possible to ensure the continued wellbeing of all clubs and those associated with them.

"We would like to thank you for your continued support and hope to see you all at the Falkirk Stadium as soon as is possible. In the meantime, please stay safe."

Raith Rovers were crowned winners of League One at the meeting, taking the title by 53 points to Falkirk's 52 with eight games remaining of the regular season when the coronavirus crisis forced a suspension of the SPFL season.