The Fall of a Footballing Institution
Bury FC, the historic two-time FA Cup winners, have entered administration in their latest desperate bid to salvage the club’s future. This development marks another painful chapter for a team that once graced the Football League for 125 years before their shocking expulsion in 2019-20—the first such case since Maidstone United’s demise in 1992.
The Shakers’ collapse stemmed from crippling financial mismanagement, leaving them stranded outside England’s football pyramid. Despite passionate appeals, EFL clubs voted 71-1 against reinstating Bury to League Two last season, while the FA blocked their non-league return citing “insolvency concerns.”
Phoenix Clubs and Divided Loyalties
As the original Bury FC battles administration, a breakaway faction formed AFC Bury—currently competing in the 10th-tier North West Counties League. However, tensions persist between the camps, with Bury FC dismissing their phoenix counterparts as “inauthentic.”
Jeetwin football analyst Mark Richardson notes: “This schism reflects deeper issues in football governance. When institutions fail, fans often fracture between preserving history and embracing fresh starts.”
Administration: Last Resort or New Hope?
New administrator Steven Wiseglass faces a Herculean task:
- Financial Restructuring: Addressing £12m+ debts while retaining Gigg Lane’s ownership
- Pyramid Re-entry: Securing FA approval for 2022-23 season (likely Northern Premier League)
- Fan Reconciliation: Uniting supporters behind a sustainable model
Lessons from Football’s Graveyard
Bury‘s plight underscores systemic issues in lower-league football:
- Financial Vulnerability: 60+ EFL clubs faced insolvency threats during COVID-19
- Regulatory Gaps: EFL’s “Fit and Proper Person Test” failed to prevent Bury’s collapse
- Community Impact: 134-year-old clubs employ hundreds and anchor local economies
As Jeetwin reported earlier this year, similar crises at Macclesfield and Wigan highlight the need for reform. The government’s upcoming football regulator may introduce stricter ownership controls.
The Road Ahead
While administrator Wiseglass targets a 2022-23 return, challenges remain:
- March 2022: Creditors must approve any CVA proposal
- May 2022: FA membership applications deadline
- June 2022: League placement decisions
Owner Steve Dale maintains optimism: “This administration process cleans the slate. We’re fighting for Bury‘s soul.”
Will one of England’s oldest clubs rise again? Follow Jeetwin for exclusive updates on this developing story. Share your memories of Bury FC in the comments below.
