Southend appeal rejected

Southend United's appeal against a 10-point deduction has been rejected.

The Essex-based club was docked points back in August after they failed to clear an outstanding debt with HM Revenue & Customs by a deadline imposed by the National League.

The Shrimpers felt the punishment was harsh and thus launched an appeal. 

According to the BBX, however, the points deduction will stand and Southend will remain bottom of the table in the fifth tier despite winning five of their 11 league matches during the current campaign.

Southend are set to return to court on 4 October regarding an unpaid £275,000 tax bill. 

Owner Ron Martin is reportedly in talks to sell the club, but any deal is very unlikely to go through prior to the court date - and Southend may go into administration, which would trigger a further points deduction.