“Creppy” decision for Cheshire with match ban
Michael Creppy’s last minute suspension ahead of tonight’s knife-edge BBL Trophy semi-final clash with the Glasgow Rocks has left Cheshire Phoenix frustrated, angry and disappointed, and their week’s preparations in tatters.
On February 2nd, an incident between Glasgow Rocks’ Gareth Murray and Phoenix’s Michael Creppy in a BBL Championship encounter was reported to the BBL Disciplinary Committee the following day by the Glasgow Rocks.
It was made known that such a report had been made through internet sources, and footage of the incident available on YouTube*, however as UKAmericanSportsFans.com understands, the Cheshire franchise were never formally informed of the Disciplinary Committee’s decision that there was no case to answer to in regards to the incident – nor were they formally informed of a counter-appeal from Glasgow Rocks.
Glasgow Rocks were successful in that appeal and now Creppy faces an immediate one-game suspension, handed down with just 24 hours notice to come in to effect for tonight’s crucial BBL Trophy semi-final second leg back at the Emirates Arena.
It is believed that Cheshire Phoenix are accepting of the decision to suspend Creppy for one game, however feel aggrieved at both the lack of urgency from when the incident occurred nearly six weeks ago, and the decision to suspend him for this particular Trophy game, rather than for a Championship game, during which the incident occurred.
Supporters and volunteers are also disappointed at the loss of Creppy for tonight’s clash.
“The incident happened during a league game, therefore if the BBL are insistent on implementing a suspension, it should be served during a Championship game; not for the second leg of the semi-final of the Trophy competition!” says Cheshire Phoenix volunteer Debbie Donaldson, who has followed the Phoenix to Glasgow for tonight’s game.
“We were only given 24 hours notice of the ban ahead of the game, which is disgusting and quite shocking,” Donaldson continued. “The players and coaching staff have all been working hard in preparation for the biggest game to date in the short history of the Phoenix which has been totally undermined by this last minute announcement.”
Despite the decision, and with Reggie Middleton still doubtful for the game at the Emirates, Cheshire Phoenix will be calling upon all their resources and support during tonight’s live BBL TV game.
*Footage of said incident is now believed to have been removed from YouTube – 15/03/2014
