SEASON’SCUT

attempted to thrash out another new plan to save the season.

A number of clubs have proposed a 22-game format which would include the introduction of a 6-4 split for the final round of fixtures.

That could create further chaos if coronavirus outbreaks cause matches to be postponed before the split.

The 18-game option is the most likely result but that needs the backing of at least eight teams from both leagues.

The remaining rounds of the Scottish Cup will be shoehorned into the final two months of the season with the SFA releasing a new match schedule yesterday which will see six rounds played out over just eight weeks.

It is still unclear if all the teams in that second round draw, which include six from the still-suspended Highland League, will be willing or able to compete.

A source said: “There is no way of knowing at this stage how many clubs, including from the lower tiers of the SPFL, will be in any position to play these fixtures. There remains a distinct possibility some of the ties could be forfeited to get the competition back up and running and completed in line with the new fixture schedule.”

SFA chief executive Ian Maxwell believes the resumption of the Scottish Cup this month will be a boost to supporters.

Maxwell said: “The Scottish Cup is our flagship competition and we are pleased that the temporary suspension of the lower leagues has been lifted to allow matches to resume.

“With the green shoots of hope emerging with the continuing successful rollout of the vaccination programme and restrictions easing in the future, the news that the Scottish Cup Final will be played in May at Hampden Park will hopefully come as a further boost to Scottish football fans this week.

“The remaining rounds will be played in quick succession and with the fixtures coming thick and fast as the season comes to a conclusion, the Scottish Cup Final will provide an exciting finale.”