League eyeing January return

THE Ebac Northern League has confirmed the postponement of this weekend’s fixtures and revealed its stance on when competitive action will return.

The league’s 40 members clubs were asked to give their views on when they would be prepared to host fixtures after the FA confirmed limited attendances would be permitted despite the region being placed under the strictest Covid-19 restrictions.

Some clubs confirmed they would be willing to return to action – but the majority felt the limited attendances and being unable to sell refreshments meant such a move was not “financially viable.”

The Northern League confirmed it will assess the situation again in the new year with a possible return date of Saturday, January 9, being considered.

Officials will also be liaising with local authorities across the North East to “address the issue of the sale of refreshments at grounds in their area.”

A league statement read: “The majority of clubs indicated it wasn’t financially viable for them to play games with attendances set at 150.

“Without any income from food and beverages, clubs would still have significant levels of expenditure with no grants being made available to cover any deficit.

“As a consequence the LMC has decided to postpone this weekend’s fixtures.

“Should the region remain in Tier Three the situation would be reviewed again by the LMC on Monday, January 4, with a possible resumption date of January 9.”