Northern League confirm cup competition shelved
The Ebac Northern League have confirmed that the cup competition they proposed to take place during April and May will not go ahead.
Thecurrentcampaignwas curtailedbytheFootballAssociation in February after the Covid-19 epidemic continued to wreak havoc with the fixture list.
Member clubs across the Northern League’s two divisions were asked for their opinions on the cup competition last month as the return of competitive football edges closeraftertwodisruptedseasons.
However, a lack of clarity over the return of supporters as the FA wait for further guidance from the Government has led to the Northern Leagueoptingagainstholding any competition.
In a statement released on their website, league chairman Glenn Youngman said: “I know people will be disappointed but there is too much uncertainty for us to proceed.
“It’s better to make a decision now so that everyone knows what the situation is as early as possible and so that clubs can start planning for the future.
“Hopefully, we can now lookforwardtolaterthissummer when we can start a new season afresh.”
Itwasalsoconfirmedatthe LeagueManagementCommitteemeetingthatEbachascontinued its sponsorship of the league.
“We are very grateful to John Elliott and the team at Ebac for their long-standing support of the league.
"The sponsorship means that we can run such a successful league, helping clubs to run, develop and grow.
“The sponsorship is particularly welcome in such challengingtimesforfootball.”
Five of the league’s member clubs will return to competitive action next month as Seaham Red Star, Shildon, West Auckland Town and Hebburn Town compete in this season’s FA Vase and the latter prepare to meet league rivals Consett in the final of last season’s competition.
Youngman sent a message to the quintet and expressed his “huge disappointment” that the Wembley showpiece between Consett and Hebburn Town will be played behind closed doors.
“Finally, we wish good luck to our teams still in the Buildbase FA Vase and in particular Consett and Hebburn who can finally contest last season’s final, although it’s a huge disappointment that their fans can’t be at Wembley to see such a historic match for both clubs.”