NICKY BRAMALD is remaining philosophical after learning his AFC Emley second string side will no longer be promoted to the West Riding County Amateur League Premier Division.

Welfare Ground chiefs believed last season’s third-place finish in Division I would provide a passage to the top flight because Bay Athletic Reserves, who finished second to champions Littletown, are not allowed to compete in the same section as the club’s first team, who won a record-breaking fourth consecutive county amateur title.

But clubs have voted to streamline the Premier Division from 16 to 14 clubs, meaning only Littletown, who are based at Town’s former Beck Lane junior ground in Heckmondwike, will go up.

Huddersfield will have four other top-flight teams alongside Bay – Golcar United, Kirkburton, Marsden and Storthes Hall.

AFC Emley Reserves, Bay Reserves and Storthes Hall Reserves will be joined by promoted Lepton Highlanders in a 15-strong First Division.

Golcar United Reserves, Huddersfield YMCA, Kirkburton Reserves and Marsden Reserves will be among the 13 clubs in Division II.

“We are disappointed we won’t be going up to the Premier Division this time but completely accept the decision of our fellow clubs,” said manager Bramald.

“We were hit hard by players being recruited to the first team last season but finished really strongly.

“Hopefully this year with if we can add a few new faces to the squad we will be capable of making a challenge for promotion.”

Bramald has fixed up three friendlies, at Cumberworth on Thursday, July 8 (7.00), at Kinsley Boys on Thursday, August 4 (7.30) and at Hall Green United on Friday, August 12 (7.00).