RAMSBOTTOM United want transfer registration rules to be clarified after they suffered a four-point penalty for fielding an illegible player.

The Evo-Stik League confirmed the punishment on Monday after it was "proven" Rammy had used Chorley player Louis Myers before his loan registration had been agreed by the Football Association.

Rammy were deducted the four points they earned in the two matches Myers played last September before his registration papers were signed off by the FA.

The club chose not to appeal the decision, but in a statement secretary Tony Cunningham said the case raised issues relating to the combined roles the FA and Evo-Stik League played in registering transfers that needed to be clarified.

Rammy maintain the paperwork was posted to the FA on September 2 and faxed to the league the following day at 9.25am, before the 11am deadline to register the signing ahead of their game against Droylsden later that day.

The club said all paperwork was correctly completed, and the loan transfer agreed by both clubs, the player and both leagues.

Myers went on to score in the 3-2 win against Droylsden and bagged a brace in a 2-2 draw against Glossop on September 10.

Rammy's statement said they were only informed in October that the FA did not receive the necessary paperwork until September 16.

And it added: "No further correspondence was received until the FA asked for an explanation in February.

"This was given, and although the FA found the charge proven, confirmed no further action would be taken.

"The Evo-Stik League then contacted the club to state Ramsbottom United would be charged by them for fielding an ineligible player.

"Once again, the explanation was sent, but despite a plea that the wording within the league rule of “save for exceptional circumstances” should be considered as the delay was caused by the FA, the league found the club guilty and imposed a fine and four-point deduction."

Club secretary Tony Cunningham said he was frustrated by the situation.

“I have asked for proof from the FA as to why it took so long for them to receive the paperwork, but to date have had no reply”, he explained.

“Everything had been correctly submitted, as the registration by the league would confirm, yet we as a club have been penalised because of the actions of the FA registration department.

“We are disappointed the league decided to impose the points deduction and fine, when there was room within their rules not to do so.

“The rule needs looking at with a view to accepting the FA are merely box-ticking the loan and that any delay on their part should not affect the registration and ability to select the player.”

Rammy had looked capable of challenging for promotion but, following the league penalty, they are now 11 points outside the Evo-Stik First Division North play-offs with seven games remaining.

Lee Gaskell scored twice from the penalty spot on Saturday to help Rammy earn a 2-2 draw at Trafford. Tuesday night's scheduled match at home to Scarborough Athletic was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch and has been rearranged to this Tuesday, kick off 7.45pm.