Falkirk won't support clubs' defence costs in arbitration case

The three clubs have sought backing for their legal defence in the ongoing arbitration case they have become involved in.

Hearts and Partick Thistle mounted a legal challenge against the SPFL and their relegations at the end of the shortened 2019-20 season which prompted United, Raith and Cove to draft in their own legal counsel to protect their promotions.

This week both United and the Kirkcaldy club, who were awarded the League One title by just one point ahead of the Bairns with eight games still to play, sought external cash input to maintain their defence in the case, including from fellow clubs.

However Falkirk last night stated no request had been made and, if one were to be received, it would be turned down.

The club said: “Falkirk Football Club wish to reassure supporters that we have not received an approach from representatives of Dundee United, Raith Rovers or Cove Rangers asking for financial support for their legal costs. If such a request is received, it will be refused immediately.”

The three clubs benefited from the decision to end the seasons early, but a bid to reconstruct the league set-up which would have resulted in no relegations and promotions for second placed clubs including Falkirk, failed, prompting Hearts and Partick Thistle to challenge the decision. Stranraer, the third relegated club in Scotland, initially fought their demotion but did not pursue the matter via the same legal avenues pursued at Tynecastle and Firhill.