The Lincolnshire FA says Lincoln City are unlikely to face severe sanctions if they field a weakened team in the Lincs Senior Cup final against Grimsby.Imps boss Steve Tilson said he will put out a youth team despite rules stating clubs must play their strongest side.
"We understand they will not want to risk injuries to players in games which they feel are not important to them," said Stephen Lilley of the Lincs FA.
"I don't think we should be too rigid in the application of the rules."
The Imps take on the Mariners in the final at Sincil Bank on 2 August.
Lincolnshire FA regulations on the Senior Cup state: "Every club in the competition shall play their strongest team.
"Any club proved to be playing an understrength team shall be dealt with by the [Lincolnshire FA] Council."
Lilley added: "The directors of the Lincolnshire County Football Association will consider action to be taken if the threat is carried out. The county cups are an important part of football in Lincolnshire.
"But I think we have to understand their position. It is clearly not their priority with the season almost upon them."
Source: BBC Sport
Source: BBC Sport