A NATIONAL survey by The FA on how the ongoing impact of Covid-19 continues to affect incomes for clubs in Tiers 3-6, has seen the Island’s three Sydenhams Wessex League teams again go through the agony of a scrapped season.
This week, the FA’s National League System committees agreed — subject to its inevitable rubber-stamping from The FA Council — this season has been declared null and void with immediate effect.
On social media, Cowes Sports, who play in the Premier, posted: “Some of you may have thought this would happen, has happened, unfortunately.
“Cowes would like to say thank you to our fellow Yachtsmen — for your great support towards our club, which has been a weird, slightly tough season and a hard year for all.
“You’ve been our 12th man at times.”
In Division 1, Newport boss, Steve Brougham had earlier indicated he wanted the season to continue while there was hope of promotion, while East Cowes Vics manager, Richie Woodburn, wanted the season declared null and void.
The survey, which gathered views on the continuation or conclusion of the 2020-21 league season, in addition to the information set out in the government’s roadmap, saw 95.8 per cent of clubs at Steps 5 and 6 respond.
The results of the survey showed that more than 76 per cent of all clubs across Steps 3-6 indicated a preference to cancel the season if it could not be restarted with limited spectator numbers and hospitality before April 1.
The FA said: “During this process, taking into account the views of clubs and leagues, it was decided extending the league season beyond the end of May would not be a viable option.
“This was due to various considerations, including the financial implications for many clubs and the extent of fixture scheduling issues caused by lockdown and various postponements, which resulted in there being 75 per cent of matches left to complete at Steps 5 and 6.
“Taking into account the survey results and the ongoing impact of Covid-19, our alliance and leagues committees reached a consensus that the league season for Steps 3-6 be curtailed with immediate effect, with no further league matches taking place this season.
“The committees will now present their collective recommendations to the FA Council for ratification.”
The Wessex League began discussions with the Hampshire FA this week on how some form of football can be rescheduled during April and May.
These talks will offer options as to what can be achieved, with a strategy for the return to football shared with all clubs once finalised.
The FA’s NLS committees have also said they will revisit discussing a potential league restructure at Steps 4-6, which had been previously agreed and put on hold since last season.
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