Rooks await some sense in playoffs farce

But the prospect of Lewes appearing in the Conference South play-off finals is still clouded in uncertainty moving towards the final month of the season.

The Conference League cut-off point for ground improvements is April 1, which is obviously out of the question, but there is a slight possibility that the date might be extended given that so many clubs are struggling to meet the requirements throughout the pyramid system.

The playoffs threaten to become a farce with question marks hanging over the participation of Lewes, Cambridge City and Farnborough, and the authorities could end up by not having a southern competition.

Lewes managing director Martin Elliott said: 'I'm sure that is not a situation they would want, but it all depends whether they stick by the rules 100 per cent.

'We're not the only club in this position, and we're waiting to see what the Conference are going to do if anything and whether they choose to come down and see the work we are planning to undertake.

'The main work starts on April 23 but we aim to begin some before that using a road through the car park end which has been agreed in principal with the district council.

'Once we get the work started it will be a massive step forward and people will see that we're doing something. We're looking forward to getting the B grading.

'There is still a problem at the Ham Lane wall end of the ground and as yet the planning is unresolved. The wall is potentially dangerous and we need to find a solution at the earliest possible date.'

Of particular worry to the club are the diminishing gates '“ just 395 against Bishop's Stortford on Saturday and 305 against Sutton United while the figure has only topped 500 twice since over 1,000 watched the Eastbourne Borough match at the turn of the year. The freezing conditions and televised international rugby union have probably taken a toll, but Lewes need a figure close to 600 to pay their way.

Progress into the Conference National would undoubtedly increase the gates, but trips to places like York, Morecambe, Exeter and Altrincham do not come cheap and the cost of players in the higher standard would rise.

Martin Elliott said: 'The lower gates are worrying and I suppose the excitement level of playing in the Conference South has dipped a little. Fans get used to what they are seeing and think twice about coming along anymore.

'Hopefully what we are trying to do at the club '“ and when they see the improvements '“ will raise the excitement levels again.'