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The FA have turned down the appeal by some Conference clubs to overturn the removal of Chester's record.
The clubs claimed a precedent had been set meaning all clubs with games due to be played against a departed side would get three points, with the existing playing record remaining intact. That point was never argued as the FA decided the appeal had come too late to be considered.
The clubs claimed the decision was made to remove Chester's record on March 8th, the day Chester's record was removed, but the FA found that the original decision and announcement was made on February 26th - meaning their appeal was outside the 14 day time limit allowed.
The eight clubs remaining from the original claimed ten, with Barrow denying involvement and Crawley withdrawing earlier today, are unlikely to press the matter any further due to the financial implications.
The decision means that Stevenage still hold a five point lead over Oxford, with the pair meeting at Broadhall Way tonight. Luton, who have played a game more but are level on points with the U's, are at home to Salisbury.
