Old Xaverians have taken full responsibility” for an administration “error” that saw their under 19s premier men’s team disqualified from this weekend’s grand final.

The Victorian Amateur Football Association (VAFA) powerhouse edged rivals St Kevin’s by five points in a pulsating preliminary final last Saturday after trailing at three quarter-time.

The following day, Xavs lost their place in the decider against Old Brighton when it was found they fielded an ineligible player.

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An investigation uncovered the player in question had played 16 Talent League games for the Oakleigh Chargers this season, four more than the maximum of 12 allowed for VAFA under-19s finals qualification.

In a statement on Tuesday morning, Old Xaverians president Michael Logan said the club fully accepts the VAFA’s ruling.

“While there was no intent by our club or any of its members or officials to deceive or act dishonestly, we accept full responsibility for this error, as VAFA rules state that clubs are accountable for ensuring players’ final eligibility,” he said.

“When the matter was brought to our attention, the club undertook a thorough review of the facts and circumstances surrounding the situation including grounds for review.

“At the conclusion of that review, we made submissions to the VAFA. Upon their further investigations, the VAFA’s position was that the ineligibility decision stood. We accept that position.

“The club has protocols in place to manage player eligibility, however in this case they failed. We will review and strengthen those procedures to ensure there is not a further occurrence.”

Logan threw his support around the player in question, who he stressed was not at fault for the oversight.

“The situation was in no way the fault of the player ruled ineligible,” Logan said.

“The club accepts responsibility for his being in this situation and I know he has received — and appreciates — the full support of his teammates.

“The way both he and his family have conducted themselves during this matter is a credit to them.

“Equally, to the rest of the playing group and their families, the club apologises unreservedly. We are all devastated that the season has ended like this.

“We have been greatly heartened by the care and support they have shown one another during a really difficult time.”