SEASON WILL BE FINISHED!

the table by a mathematical model - are effectively dead in the water. Clubs want to play the remaining seven fixtures later in the year and share out the European prize money.

They would satisfy UEFA’S desire for European qualifiers by rewinding the table to 22 games when clubs had played each other home and away. It is understood Cliftonville would qualify for the Champions

League in that scenario but wouldn’t be declared champions.

Crusaders chairman Ronnie Millar said: “It was a very passionate meeting but the consensus is to finish the season by playing the remaining seven league fixtures. We want to play them with fans or some fans in attendance and finish it when we can, depending on advice from the NI Executive.”

While today was billed as a deadline to inform UEFA of exact plans to end the season, clubs believe a simple resolution that they want to conclude the campaign will suffice. There is also a growing belief UEFA may extend its August 3 deadline date to end domestic competition when it meets on June 17.

Last night’s drama came on a day when local MLAS urged a briefing from the Irish FA on how it plans to end the season.

Political intervention came after Crusaders wrote to Health Minister Robin Swann voicing concerns that NIFL’S proposals would breach Covid-19 guidelines.

Members of Stormont’s Communities committee want clarification from the IFA on how the season would end.

On NIFL’S preferred option to play two games at the end of July, Crues’ Millar added: “Playing two games behind closed doors would cripple clubs financially. There is also the health and safety aspect for players and officials to consider.”

When football was suspended, Linfield led Coleraine by four points with seven games left.