Seamer’s Lowery slapped with five-year FA ban

Lowery, who was making his first start for the Scarborough Saturday League division three leaders this season in the cup-tie at Heslerton, is now banned from all football until November 16 2019.

The player was found guilty by the county FA of assaulting referee Kevin Crick in the 73rd minute of their Scarborough & District FA Junior Cup clash at the Beckett League division one side, who were leading the game 4-2 at the time.

A police investigation into the incident is ongoing.

Seamer Reserves have also been thrown out of the competition as a result of the abandonment.

Tom Radigan, chief executive of the North Riding FA, said: “The player now has 14 days to appeal against the decision to the Football Association.

“Although he pleaded not guilty to the charge the player did not attend the hearing, so the judgment was passed in his absence.”

Lowery’s manager, Gary Dixon, said: “Liam apologised to the whole team, and to the club after the game for his actions, after they caused the game to be abandoned.

“Liam had played for the first time this season as a sub in our league match prior to this and this was his first start for Seamer Reserves.

“I feel sorry for Liam for his five-year ban as he is going to miss a lot of football during this time.

“I gave my statement to the FA about the incident and they have now made their decision.”

Dixon added: “I have been informed by the Scarborough & District FA that as the abandonment of the Heslerton v Seamer Sports Reserves Junior Cup fixture was caused by Seamer then we will no longer be in the competition.”