Northern League release statement over tier three restrictions

The Ebac Northern League h ave c o n f i r m e d th e y w i l l take part in an online meeting between the Football Association and leagues in step five and six of the non-league pyramid.

The move comes in the aftermath of the government’s announcement over the new tier system that has been enforced as they continue their battle against the Covid-19 epidemic.

T we l ve c ou n c i l a reas around the North East has been placed in tier three and that means that the region will face the toughest restrictions for at least two weeks after national lockdown ends next week.

It has been confirmed that clubs that participate in elite sport in the region will be unable to allow supporters to attend their matches during that time.

That means that the likes of Hartlepool United, Gateshead, Blyth Spartans and Spennymoor Town will continue to play their National League and National League North fixtures behind closed doors.

However, leagues below step two of the non-league pyramid are classed as “nonelite sports” and confirmat io n i s awa i te d ove r wh at impact the restrictions will have on clubs at that level.

A Northern League statement read: “There is a meeting between the FA and Steps 5/6 leagues and we will be discussing the implications fo r th e l ea g ue o f th e G overnment’s announcement on which areas are in which tiers.

“A meeting of the League Management Committee will then be held as soon as possible about the way forward and we will let clubs and spectators know how we will proceed as soon as possible.

“We share everyone’s frustration with the situation but ask everyone to keep abiding by the new rules so that everyone keeps safe and well.”

S o ut h S h i e l d s h ave a l - so confirmed that they are awaiting clarity over what the decision to impose tier three restrictions on South Tyneside means to them.

The Mariners – who ply their trade in the step three Northern Premier League – released a statement saying: “We note the decision to place South Tyneside into Tier 3 of the restrictions which come into force from Dec 2.

“We're waiting clarity as to what this means for "nonelite" sport and our prospects of playing games and welcoming fans. We will provide info as soon as we have it.”