‘Substantial’ number vote to continue step 3 pause

Southern League clubs are still unaware whether the season will resume in December.

A decision was due to be made by leagues at steps three and four - Southern League, Isthmian League and Northern Premier League – yesterday after teams where asked to vote on the campaign restart following the 'non-elite' football suspension.

But in a statement, the Southern League stated that a 'substantial' of the 224 clubs across the trident leagues had voted to continue the pause to the season which came last month when the nationwide lockdown measures were put in place across England.

A number of teams across the step three and four divisions are in areas currently under tier three restrictions meaning they would have to play matches behind closed doors.

Meanwhile, clubs under tier two measures face limit on the sale of food and drink at grounds.

Government reviews of the three-tier system are to take place every two weeks with the first of those to take place on December 16.

Southern League Division One South Moneyfields return to action after a four week enforced break when they welcome Truro City in the FA Trophy first round proper tomorrow.

As things stand, no decision has been made on when the Moneys and Southern League Premier South Gosport Borough's league campaigns can resume.

A Southern League statement said: ‘The clubs in membership of the Northern Premier, Southern and Isthmian Leagues (the trident leagues) met earlier this week to consider the challenges and issues brought about by the reintroduction of tiers after the raising of the nationwide lockdown with effect from yesterday.

‘The clubs were asked to vote on a proposition that the pause in fixtures be continued with a regular review in light of changes to the tiers and/or grants becoming available.

‘The total votes cast by the 224 clubs show a substantial number of clubs in agreement with the proposition.

‘The matter has been considered today and is subject to comment by The FA.

‘A further statement will be issued in due course.’