Grattan League have lost a second predominately Asian team in a week.

Successful Premier Division club Farcliffe United have joined North Avenue in resigning from the league.

North Avenue had to quit after the West Riding County FA withdrew their affiliation until the end of May following their abandoned match at Bierley United when three players were sent off and spectators encroached on the pitch.

North Avenue who are appealing against the county FA's decision believe the authorities are prejudiced against them.

Farcliffe are believed to hold similar views, but secretary Arif Nazir declined to comment on their decision to resign.

Farcliffe won the Second and First Division championships in successive seasons and are currently third in the Premier Division. They were beaten finalists in the Supplementary Cup two years ago.

But Farcliffe were in front of the County FA last May after disturbances at the end of their league cup semi-final defeat against Woodend Rangers and were fined and warned about their future conduct.

They were due to face the County FA again after their recent match against U Save DIY was abandoned by the referee following a brawl involving players and spectators.

Grattan League president David Musgrove said: "The league are sorry to see any teams go, but we understand the circumstances why Farcliffe took this action."

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