Scottish First Division clubs "are considering proposing a vote of no confidence" in the Scottish Football League's board of management, according to Smith & Gordon of the SCOTSMAN. Eight First Division clubs plus Second Division champions Queen of the South "have already indicated their intention to resign from the SFL." They "would be joined by Dundee if the Dens Park club is relegated from the Scottish Premier League" and the 10 would then attempt to form a second-tier SPL. The disaffected clubs are "understood to be frustrated at the slow place of change as they seek a shake-up of league football and more equitable distribution of monies." One senior source said that "the SPL will not be extending an invitation" to Rangers to join its ranks (SCOTSMAN, 5/5).
SEEKING RESOLUTION: In Glasgow, Gordon Waddel wrote the SPL will debate the First Division rebel 10's breakaway proposal on Tuesday -- "but it looks doomed to failure." The plan to resign from the SFL and create a new Championship tier under the SPL's umbrella "is on the agenda for a meeting of the top 12." However, Ross County Chair Roy MacGregor insists that "there is still a greater desire within the top flight to see a 42-club solution governed by one body." A third idea -- simply introducing playoffs to the mix in time for next season -- "is also on the table and needs only an 8-4 majority to succeed." The rebel 10 believe their cost to the SPL "would be cash neutral, because they would bring their slice of the league settlement agreement with them" (DAILY RECORD, 5/5). In London, Gavin McCafferty wrote Hamilton Chair Les Gray Friday confirmed that they had grown frustrated with the SFL board and the rebel group hopes the SPL "will meet them to discuss a two-tier structure." Gray "would not go into details of their proposal to the SPL." Gray: "We have always said we would prefer a 42-club solution. If they are unable to do that, we can't sit on our hands and see what happens" (TELEGRAPH, 5/3).
