From ‘diabolical’ to ‘deserved’: How League One clubs reacted to the decision that ended Sunderland’s promotion hopes
League One clubs yesterday voted to curtail the 2019/20 season, subsequently ending Sunderland’s faint promotion hopes - but how did rival sides react to the verdict?
By Mark Donnelly
Published 10th Jun 2020, 12:30 BST
Updated 10th Jun 2020, 12:42 BST
With a convincing majority having voted for the season to be ended, many owners and managers were pleased with the outcome.
But as ever, there was an unhappy majority - who were quick to hit out at the EFL and, indeed, fellow third tier sides.
Scroll down to see how some League One clubs reacted to the decision:
Scroll down to see how some League One clubs reacted to the decision:
5. Doncaster Rovers
Rovers said they ‘fully understood’ the EFL’s decision. In a statement, the club added: “The health of all individuals associated with the football club - fans, players and staff alike - is of paramount importance. We respect the decision made collectively by League One clubs and welcome the clarity that has now been provided following the vote.” Photo: George Wood
Joey Barton admitted he was ‘gutted’ his side didn’t get the chance to complete the campaign, while offering his commiserations to Sunderland. He tweeted: “I’m a bit gutted we didn’t get to finish our season. We really fancied our chances of automatic promotion with 9 games remaining. Congratulations to @Coventry_City and @OfficialRUFC on promotion. Commiserations to @TranmereRovers @theposhofficial @SunderlandAFC.” Photo: Alex Livesey
Steve Evans said: “I am really disappointed. I managed to get Paul Scally (the Gillingham chairman) on side many times to play football, to play the season out. I wanted to play the nine games and I thought we would have got into the play-offs after looking at all the run-ins.” Photo: Julian Finney
The Tractor Boys voted to play on, and manager Paul Lambert wasn’t shy in hiding his feelings: “It’s been diabolical the way it has been handled. They were running out of time in the end to get the season played. I always felt that. Maybe that was in their thinking.” Photo: Lewis Storey