Buckie Thistle’s Pyramid Play-Off Tie Cancelled due to Licensing Issue

Buckie Thistle’s dreams of securing a place in the Scottish Professional Football League next season have been dashed after their Pyramid Play-Off tie against East Kilbride was cancelled due to their failure to meet Scottish FA licensing requirements.

The Highland League champions were left “stunned and devastated” by the decision, which means East Kilbride will progress straight to the final against the bottom team of Scottish League 2.

Buckie had clinched the Highland League title for the 12th time in a dramatic final day showdown, edging out Brechin City on goal difference. However, their failure to obtain the required bronze-level club licence proved to be their downfall.

Despite claiming they had requested a period of grace for certain items, Buckie were unable to meet the licensing committee’s requirements, leading to their exclusion from the play-off.

East Kilbride boss Mick Kennedy expressed his sympathy for Buckie Thistle, stating that it was not the way he would have wanted to progress in the competition. The play-off will now see East Kilbride face either Clyde, Stranraer, or Bonnyrigg Rose for a chance to secure a place in the SPFL next season.

The news comes as a blow to Buckie Thistle, who had just celebrated their first silverware in seven years under the leadership of manager Graeme Stewart. The club’s fans and players are left disappointed by the timing of the decision, which has overshadowed their recent success in the Highland League.