VALE'S survival hopes have been dealt a major blow this week, despite securing a convincing win over Hawick Royal Albert.

Whitehill Welfare listed ineligible players when they beat the Innerleithen side 4-3 just before Christmas at Victoria Park.

After admitting the offence at a disciplinary hearing the match was ordered to be replayed.

But an appeal has found in favour of Whitehill this week and they are being allowed to keep the points.

Vale manager Chris Anderson has described the decision as 'a disgrace' and 'making a mockery' of the Lowland League.

He told us: "It is a shocking decision. I don't understand it.

"They initially said there would be a replay, which we thought that was a bit harsh because they had clearly broken the rules – regardless of whether it was intentional or not.

"But now they've made an appeal and it and just ended up with a £50 fine. It just makes a mockery of the whole system.

"We as a club are furious. We are fighting relegation and these are big games.

"The decision also sets a precedent for the future. The league can't ever punish a team for a team sheet infringement now."

Vale currently sit in second bottom but they can still catch Gala Fairydean Rovers if they win their games in hand.

David Baxter, secretary of the Lowland League said: "The league has a disciplinary process and Whitehill Welfare had the right to appeal the league's decision. 

"Whitehill's punishment has now been revised by the SFA and the decision has to stand and be respected."

The Vale are set to face Whitehill at Victoria Park tomorrow in the South Region Challenge Cup at 3pm.