CIRENCESTER RFC have failed in their appeal to overturn a 25-point deduction by the RFU.

The decision of the South West Divisional Organising Committee of the RFU means that Ciren have been demoted from fifth place to 13th (of 14) in the Tribute Western Counties North and now face a relegation battle.

Cirencester were found guilty of fielding an ineligible player in the 35-29 away win at Old Centralians on November 27, for which they were penalised five points, and the more serious offence of deliberately falsifying the match card, which earned them a further 20-point deduction.

With two sides to be relegated from the division, Ciren must try to reel in St Mary’s Old Boys, the side now 12 points above them in the table.

Ciren did themselves a favour with a 20-14 victory over St Mary’s last Saturday.

Director of Rugby, Steve Thompstone said: “It was good to win and this weekend we play bottom club Drybrook at home after losing to them earlier in the season.

“It’s essential we continue to win our home games as this will give us every chance to climb the league table again.

“The players know the challenges ahead and I am confident we have the ability and resolve to pull clear of the relegation zone.”