Pars consult FIFA in pitch battle
Dunfermline will consult FIFA before launching a compensation battle with the Scottish Premier League after their controversial artificial pitch was banned.
The SPL board have twice voted to outlaw the surface at East End Park, with the latest verdict made earlier this week after the Scottish Football Association ordered a re-think.
The Pars insist they have been railroaded into getting rid of the pitch, and want compensation for costs and lost revenue as they prepare to rip up the plastic and reluctantly lay turf.
But director Frank McConnell, who is a lawyer, revealed that an approach to world football’s governing body could yet save the pitch.
He said: “We had a communication from FIFA in relation to the refusal by the SPL board at the reconvened hearing. We want to respond and be sure precisely where FIFA is coming from.
“It (laying turf) looks probable but the caveat to that is we do want to discuss with FIFA in response to their e-mail to see if there is any other escape route.”
The Pars will not fight the SPL ruling in the courts but do expect to unleash their lawyers in search of recompense.
McConnell added: “It would be a claim for loss, for compensation, for damage.”
The Pars drew 0-0 at home to Brechin City last night with new signing Mark Burchill, the Scotland striker, pulling on a Dunfermline shirt for the first time since his summer switch from Hearts.
