East Stirling expelled from Scottish Cup for fielding ineligible player

East Stirlingshire have been expelled from the Scottish Cup after fielding an ineligible player in their fourth-round win over Buckie Thistle, the Scottish Football Association have confirmed.

Falkirk goalkeeper Michael Andrews played in last week's 1-0 victory for Shire despite the registration documents for his loan extension failing to appear at Hampden.

The Irn-Bru Third Division club insisted they sent the papers to the SFA and Scottish Football League before Christmas.

However, at an emergency meeting this afternoon the SFA board members determined the club should be expelled from the competition.

Highland League side Buckie Thistle now face a fifth-round tie against Brechin.

An SFA statement read: "Following a breach of Cup Competition rule 39.1b, East Stirlingshire have been expelled from the Scottish Cup competition.

"The club were found to have fielded an ineligible player, Michael Andrews, in the above match.

"The club will also lose any fourth round sponsorship monies owed.

"All misconduct decisions from the original match stand.

"Buckie Thistle now advance to round five."