EFL 2019: Knox relegation fate in limbo as part of Berwick application

Knox was set to be demoted for a second consecutive year, but now its relegation fate is in limbo. Here’s why the Falcons might be afforded a relegation reprieve.

Rob Maibaum gets boot to ball for Knox. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Knox is facing the prospect of a relegation reprieve with president Jane Barbanti declaring the uncertainty surrounding the club’s position for 2020 a “huge disadvantage”.

The Falcons recorded with six wins this season but finished in the Division 1 drop zone to be demoted for a second consecutive year.

But they could resume their position in the second tier if Berwick’s push to cross from AFL Outer East to the EFL is given the green light.

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Berwick’s application will go to a club vote on September 25.

Knox president Jane Barbanti urged clubs to carefully consider their options.

She said the Falcons’ future was uncertain without the knowledge of which division it will be competing in.

Berwick celebrates last year’s SEFNL flag. Picture: Chris Eastman/AAP

“That’s naturally affecting our ability to recruit new players (and) also looking at our existing playing group,” Barbanti said.

“We hope our current players are loyal (and) play for the club, which a lot of them do, but then I also understand you have players that want to play at the highest level they are capable of.

“We’re also looking for new coaches for next season as well.”

The EFL has suggested a 12-team Division 1 competition next year if Berwick is admitted.

But a definitive answer on whether the Wickers’ application will be approved may not be known for some weeks.

Barbanti said the process had put Knox at a “huge disadvantage”.

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AFL Outer East would need to consider if it would allow the Wickers to change leagues after just one season in the new competition.

AFL Victoria intervention may also be required.

“It may be another month or so before we really know where we stand,” Barbanti said.

The EFL has also suggested Berwick could join Division 2 next season, making the third tier a nine-team competition.

There would be no impact on promotion and relegation if that option was adopted.

Barbanti suggested a move for Berwick to enter the competition in 2021.

“At least then the team that did finish on the bottom of the ladder would definitely know what division they would be in,” she said.

“It’s just put us at a marked disadvantage. We’re pretty much in limbo at the moment.”

Knox is searching for a new coach after David Madigan’s decision to step down. Picture: Andy Brownbill

In its summary sent to clubs, the EFL stated: “The EFL board has met with the Berwick Football Club and have been suitably impressed with the planning and work done by their committee as part of the application to transfer process.

“The board is of the unanimous view that Berwick Football Club will be a positive addition to the league and will assist their quest for a long-term sustainable future.”

AFL Victoria said Berwick’s application remained with the EFL.

“AFL Victoria will only be involved if one of the parties involved in the process lodges an objection or appeal,” it said.

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