Cup competition often in the news for wrong reasons raises more gloom

Yet again the Nathaniel MG Cup is in the news for the wrong reasons.

This time, the 2023-24 semi-final draw will have to be delayed due to an issue surrounding an outstanding last eight tie.

Cardiff Met University and Pontypridd United were due to meet on Tuesday, but the match was postponed for an undisclosed reason.

Today, a bit more light was shed on the situation.

An FAW statement said: “The JD Cymru Leagues can confirm that the Nathaniel MG Cup Quarter-Final match that was scheduled for Tuesday, 24 October was postponed due to an on-going investigation into a potential breach of FAW Rule(s).

“Whilst this matter is being investigated a decision has been taken to postpone the Semi-Final draw until further notice.

“There will be no further comment at this time.”

In recent seasons, the Nathaniel MG Cup, formerly known as the Welsh League Cup, has become notorious for expelling various clubs for rule breaches.

There is now an unattributed saying: “If you win in the Natty, don’t celebrate yet as the win might be taken off you”.

The apparent main problem regarding rule transgressions has been the use of substitutes in regard to player ages.

While some have unsympathetically said “the club knew the rules”. those actual rules appear to have not always been made crystal clear to the clubs.

Some very experienced clubs with very experienced officials have fallen foul of the rules in recent campaigns.

This week, The New Saints, Guilsfield and Swansea City advanced to the semi-finals, North Wales clubs Prestatyn Town and Gresford Athletic exiting the competition.

More news on the immediate future of the 2023-24 competition is now awaited.