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Waterford FC awaiting decision on potential prison sentence for Andy Pilley

Waterford FC awaiting decision on potential prison sentence for Andy Pilley
Andy Pilley, Waterford Football Club owner, at the RSC.

Waterford Football Club are functioning as it would on any other Monday, despite the possibility of club owner Andy Pilley facing a prison sentence tomorrow.

The businessman, who also owns English League One outfit Fleetwood Town, was found guilty of two counts of running a business with the intention of defrauding creditors, one count of false representation and one count of being concerned with the retention of criminal property.

He was convicted at Preston Crown Court last Friday and remanded for sentencing tomorrow, with Judge Knowles KC hinting at a prison sentence for the 52-year-old.

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Responding to the court's decision, a club statement read: "Following news of a verdict in a court case involving Andy Pilley, the club would like to issue the following update.

"Waterford Football Club would like to reassure supporters the Club will continue to operate as normal and there will be no risk to the future of the club.

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"The Club’s Senior Management Team and directors have been planning for a number of months for the event of a verdict of this nature.

"A meeting of the Club’s management has taken place this morning and plans are already in operation to ensure its business as usual.

"We’d like to reassure supporters charges are solely brought against Andy Pilley and not Waterford Football Club, Fleetwood Town Football Club or any of the businesses attached to the group.

"An announcement regarding the next step will be made in due course."

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Pilley completed his takeover of the Blues last August and has recently overseen the appointment of League of Ireland veteran Keith Long as head coach.

The side holds second place in the First Division table, ten points adrift of runaway leaders Galway United.

Following last season's agonising defeat against UCD in the Premier Division playoff final, a determination to grow the club into a Premier Division powerhouse has remained front and centre.

Beat Sport will provide updates when available.

Keep up to date with all the latest sports news on our website beat102103.com.

 

 

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