DROYLSDEN FC must start the football season behind closed doors after a ground closure order was upheld.
The Bloods were told their Butchers Arms ground must shut for two matches following crowd disorder at the North West Counties League First Division North Play-Off Final against Maghull.
That means the Premier Division opener at home to AFC Liverpool on Saturday, August 1 will have no fans present. Nor will the meeting with South Liverpool on Tuesday, August 4.
Droylsden appealed the Football Association’s punishment, but after learning the plea had failed, the club vowed to fight back.
In a statement, it said: “They can knock us down, but we will always get back up again.
“It is not good news about the closed ground sanctions staying in place despite our appeal.
“In the club’s opinion, these sanctions do nothing to help going forward. Indeed they only serve to potentially damage the club.
“However, they have not stopped us from carrying on as usual as it can be.
“We have a new action plan drafted and in place, more changes will be taking place before we welcome you back for the visit of the Isle of Man on Tuesday, August 18 but we cannot do this alone.
“We appeal to all our supporters to be respectful to everyone, including opposition and officials by words and actions, continue to bring your brilliant, noisy and inspiring support but keep it within the boundaries of decency.
“We will not let this beat us, it will make us stronger and we will prove them wrong again.”
Droylsden FC were punished after being found guilty three charges and fined £710, as well as the ground closure.
A third match closure has been suspended for 12 months and the club contended: “The findings and punishment brought about by the FA are considered extremely harsh, being unfair on the majority of supporters and financially restrictive for the club,
“Droylsden FC remains committed to making the Butchers Arms a safe and respectful place to watch football and cannot emphasise enough our commitment to action against any behaviour, either by deed or words that disrespects or abuses.
“Our aim is to provide excellent service and facilities whilst ensuring the highest standards of safety for all players, supporters, staff, match officials and visitors to the Butchers Arms ground.”