Perth Glory FC chairman Tony Sage issued a statement today apologising to members and fans and outlined some immediate measures going forward for the club.
To say that it’s been a difficult few weeks in football is an understatement.
The events during this time, have left us all feeling shocked, sad, angry and very disappointed.
Like you, I am gutted that our club has been eliminated from the finals campaign and would like to take this opportunity to apologise to all our members, fans, and sponsors for the situation the club finds itself in.
Unfortunately I can’t undo what has been done, however, the club has already taken steps to ensure this never happens again.
Last night Perth Glory accepted Football Federation of Australia’s sanctions and discontinued all court action against the FFA.
Overnight, I also accepted the resignation of Jason Brewer who has stepped down as the club’s Chief Executive and I have also engaged the services of an independent auditor.
That means, a line in the sand has now been drawn and the club will work with the FFA to improve Glory’s administration processes and protocols and hopefully our systems will be the benchmark of the Hyundai A-league.
I must stress that while the club has accepted the FFA’s sanctions and fines, the club does NOT have a culture of systemic rorting.
We reiterate that all payments were made from the club’s bank account.
It is important to note that for seasons 2012/13 and 2013/14 the club failed to report benefits, in relation to accommodation and vehicles but it did NOT exceed the salary cap for those respective seasons.
From this point on, our focus must be on taking the positive performances on and off the field this season, and preparing for 2015/16.
This process starts this Sunday when the boys take on Melbourne City in what will be the team’s last home game of the season.
I know some of you are still hurting and may not want to come to the game, but Kenny and the boys need you now more than ever.
This is a situation that has rocked me but it has made me more resolved than ever, to see Perth Glory FC fulfill its true potential.
I hope we can all continue the journey forward, together.
Sincerely,
Tony Sage
Chairman
Perth Glory FC