Hebburn Town boss delivers verdict on controversial FA decision

Thursday was a day of mixed emotions for the Hornets as their hopes of securing one of the three promotion places on offer in the Northern League’s top tier were ended by the FA’s decision.

However, their dreams of reaching Wembley Stadium remain alive after the governing body confirmed that they would be “reviewing all options” in order to allow the FA Vase to be completed.

Bolam’s side were set to face Southern Counties East League club Corinthian in two-legged semi-final with the winners facing either Bitton or Consett at Wembley in May.

Bolam admitted that he understood the decision that has been taken by the FA and urged the club to focus on making amends next season.

He told The Gazette: “I think the promotion bid gets lost a bit with the Vase still going on – but it was every bit as important as trying to get to Wembley for us all.

“I think the club feel that and I know I do.

“We understand the decision, there are more important things going on in the world right now.

“It is disappointing but it’s slightly easier to take because it’s out of our hands.

“There isn’t a great deal we can do about it and I come to terms with it, it’s done and dusted, and we have to move on.”

The decision to end the season meant that Bolam was able to reflect on his first campaign as a Northern League manager.

The former Hornets reserve team boss was the surprise choice to replace Scott Oliver when he left the club at the end of last season.

But the club’s decision to appoint Bolam has brought dividends as he led them into contention for a promotion place and to within 180 minutes of a first ever visit to Wembley.

“I’ve loved every single minute of it,” explained Bolam.

“I was a little bit nervous and apprehensive at the beginning of the season.

“But I have never changed the way I do things, no matter if that’s with junior sides, reserve sides or the first team.”