Nantwich Town are not returning to league action yet, despite being able to play again after lockdown.
Clubs in the three Trident Leagues which includes the Northern Premier League have voted in favour of continuing to pause league fixtures.
More than 75% of the 224 clubs voted in favour of continue the pause in fixtures. Fifty-one clubs disagreed and one club abstained.
Only four of 61 NPL clubs cited against the proposal.
It means there will be no return yet to league action for the Dabbers, and will probably mean no league games until at least January.
A spokesperson for the NPL said: “It is intended that the situation is kept under review in line with Government review on the Tier allocations and restrictions.
“Accordingly, the next review is set for 16 December and then 30 December.
“It is the hope of all the Leagues that a date in January can be set for a return to fixtures with clubs who wish being allowed to play before that date but this will not be until there is a change in the Tiers and/or some progress in the funding of the clubs at this level.”
The Government has allocated £25million to Sport England to fund Steps 1 to 6 of the National Leagues system, of which £14m is set for Steps 3-6 but is heavily weighted in favour of loans, not grants.
The spokesman added: “The FA is working with DCMS and Sport England to have the funding presented as grants.
“However, these negotiations take time, and it is not expected to have an answer or clarification of details of even the loans until mid-January.
“The deep concern of all involved in the NLS is that circumstances may mean that it is not possible to conclude the current format of competition in a manner in which promotion and relegation can be achieved throughout the whole pyramid with Step 2 being brought up to 48 clubs and Step 4 brought up to 240 clubs.
“If, therefore, no progress is made by the Government on the Tiers in either of the two December reviews, it is the intention of the Alliance Committee to circulate those concerned with a survey to gather the views of the clubs as how best to finish the season.
“Options will include an alternative format competition and extending the season possibly into June 2021.
“However, the implications of all such proposals will involve the cost of players contracts and the ability of some clubs to continue playing because of other issues of grounds and the need to prepare grass pitches for the following season.
“The Leagues are mindful of the needs of all clubs and are striving to find a solution which is fair to all.”
Recent Comments