News just on the hong Kong wire

[Rogerinhonkers]

LONDON, July 19 (Reuters) - Newly-promoted English third division club Boston United have been docked four points from the start of the new season and fined 100,000 pounds ($158,000) by the Football Association (FA) for contractual irregularities.

Manager Steve Evans also remains suspended by Boston after admitting to four breaches of FA rules at a hearing in Birmingham on Friday.

Boston, who won promotion to the Football League last season on goal difference over rivals Dagenham and Redbridge, pleaded guilty to all charges.

``Boston admitted six breaches of FA rules relating to the lodging of registered playing contracts containing details which were found to be false,'' said a statement on the FA's website.

The Lincolnshire club will appeal the punishment.

However, Dagenham believe that Boston should be demoted back to the Football Conference -- with Dagenham replacing them.

While pleading guilty to four breaches, Evans also denied four other charges.

``He has denied four charges relating to contract irregularities and impeding the investigation, which will be dealt with at a later date,'' said the FA statement.

``The penalties for the charges he has admitted will be decided once the other charges have been dealt with.''

The statement added: ``Pat Malkinson, the former chairman of Boston, has denied two charges relating to contract irregularities and impeding the inquiry. These matters will be dealt with at a later date.''

Boston are due to begin their campaign at home to Bournemouth on August 10.