Eircom League clubs last night voted for a ten-team Premier division, starting in two years' time. At the end of the 2001-2002 season, three teams will be relegated and only one promoted.

But even as they were leaving the meeting in Merrion Square, officials from top clubs were declaring themselves bitterly disappointed with the time delay.

And Shelbourne secretary Ollie Byrne hinted a breakaway by top clubs if the FAI doesn't act quickly to stem falling attendances.

"We need a ten-team league now, with a cross-border league next," Byrne said. "We are prepared to take it a step at a time, but a ten-team league in two years is no good to anyone.

"The top clubs will take matters into their own hands if the FAI does not get it right."

The FAI also agreed to set aside around £80,000 a year for the development of clubs in the first division.