Opening day fixture off as Portadown are handed suspension

The suspension was imposed by the Irish FA over non-payment of disciplinary fees imposed in April for making undisclosed payments to players.

As a result is seems the game at The Showgrounds this Saturday will not be played.

Reports suggest the Ports will forfeit the game and the Bannsiders will be awarded the three points, however Times Sport understands this will come down to the Northern Ireland Football League to decide.

A statement released by the IFA read: “The Irish Football Association today confirmed that its Disciplinary Committee has suspended Portadown Football Club from all affiliated football for non-payment of disciplinary fees.

“The suspension, which comes into effect immediately, will remain in place until the Monday after any payment is made - in accordance with Article 9.3 of the Irish FA’s Disciplinary Code.”

Article 9.3 reads: “Should a suspension be imposed on a club due to failure by that club to pay a fine, the suspension will remain in effect until the Monday following receipt of payment.”