The fallout from the controversial decision to remove Narrandera Lizards from the ProTen Community Cup finals series continues.

The Narrandera executive have sought legal advice on their position and lodged an appeal with NSW Rugby League (NSWRL), after they were deemed to have played an unqualified player, and booted from the finals series.

They were due to meet Ivanhoe Roosters today, in Ivanhoe.

Their banning meant Rankins Springs Dragons were elevated into the match to meet the Roosters, however the Dragons are yet to release a men’s team list.

Rumours are swirling that today’s match in Ivanhoe, scheduled to kick off at 2.30pm, may not even play.

On Friday, the Club released the following statement:

”Just letting all our supporters know at this stage there won’t be decision made on our appeal until next week but the game between Ivanhoe and Rankin Spring will go ahead tomorrow .. we are just confused as everyone will be after they read this.

The Club held out hopes that their appeal would be successful, and they would get to play the winner of the Ivanhoe and Rankins Springs game, with the grand final pushed out one week later.

”NSWRL knew exactly what they were doing by dragging the appeal out until next week. Delaying the decision has now guaranteed the boys will miss their chance at the grand final — and they knew that. It’s not just “confusing,” it’s calculated,” the club said.

“Our boys deserved better.”

Media reports yesterday claim Group 20 chair Adam Brill and NSWRL had conducted an “investigation,” which ultimately saw the Lizards removed from today’s final.

Questions have been raised at the involvement of Group 20 and how and why they carried out the probe.

Back Country Bulletin contacted Mr Brill, NSWRL, Group 20 and ProTen but no response was received.

Outraged community members have started a petition, with more thank 1800 signatures already.