CLUBS ARE SET TO CONTINUE THEIR MATCHES THIS WEEKEND

NORTH West Counties Football League fixtures are expected to go ahead this weekend, despite clubs being canvassed about the possibility of suspending matches.

The coronavirus pandemic forced the league to delay the start to the season until earlier this month - and problems have continued to mount for league clubs. A host of games in midweek were called off because of Covid-19 issues, with several sides falling in to high tier areas outlined by the government.

And that left NWCL officials asking clubs to air their views on three possible options to plot a way forward.

· SUSPEND the league with immediate effect until the end of October when the situation will be reviewed. · SUSPEND matches for sides in Tier Three areas. · CONTINUE with the league season and manage individual issues as is currently the case.

At the moment, games are going ahead, although it is likely that the situation will continue to be monitored next week.

That means Congleton Town’s Premier Division game at home against Burscough will take place. The Division One South games involving Alsager Town, Stone Old Alleynians, Abbey Hulton United and Sandbach United are due to be played. Eccleshall haven’t kicked a ball in the league yet after they were forced to shelve plans to start their league campaign because of coronavirus issues. However, they will be action tomorrow when they take on Hanley Town in the FA Vase. Rocester are also in FA Vase action when they entertain Bewdley Town.

The match had to be rearranged after a positive test in the Rocester camp forced the original tie to be called off.

In the Midland League, Brocton are on the road to Chelmsley Town, while Stafford Town also have an away date as they visit Kirby Muxloe.

Uttoxeter Town are at home against Stapenhill.

· SEE Page 41 for the full list of fixtures.