Walton & Hersham FC has officially lodged a formal complaint with the Football Association concerning the conduct of Billy Rowley, the club’s former manager who now leads Yeovil Town.
The complaint follows allegations of multiple unauthorized approaches by Rowley to players under contract with Walton & Hersham. Notably, these interactions reportedly occurred during the club’s end-of-season staff event, where Rowley was accompanied by Yeovil Town’s Head of Recruitment—a presence the Walton & Hersham management found unwelcome.
Additionally, Walton & Hersham have raised serious concerns about inappropriate and threatening correspondence sent directly to the club’s ownership, including profane language and disparaging public comments made by Rowley about the club, its ownership, and officials.
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The complaint also highlights that Yeovil Town made a formal offer to midfielder Mason Obeng, a player who has declined a contract renewal with Walton & Hersham, further intensifying concerns about player retention and contractual commitments.
Walton & Hersham state they have provided the Football Association with comprehensive evidence, including testimonies and documented material detailing the conduct in question. The club expresses disappointment over the lack of prior resolution through private channels, prompting a public disclosure of these issues.
A Walton & Hersham FC spokesperson said: “We are compelled to raise these matters formally after repeated attempts to protect our players and club integrity were disregarded. Our priority is to uphold fair standards within the game and to safeguard our community, players, and staff. We stand ready to cooperate fully with the FA and any other relevant authorities.”
Yeovil Town has yet to comment on the allegations. Rowley departed Walton & Hersham in November to take up his current role.