Isthmian League clubs set for verdict on whether season restarts

Clubs in the Isthmian League will know on Thursday whether it's all systems go - or whether they will be left kicking their heels for longer
Worthing are top of the Isthmian League - but will that league restart this month as planned? Picture: Marcus HoareWorthing are top of the Isthmian League - but will that league restart this month as planned? Picture: Marcus Hoare
Worthing are top of the Isthmian League - but will that league restart this month as planned? Picture: Marcus Hoare

They are being polled on whether to restart the league as planned from next weekend or whether to wait until the UK's coronavirus tiers and restrictions make it simpler to play games and welcome fans again.

At a group call on Tuesday night clubs discussed the pros and cons of playing or pausing, with many different opinions aired.

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It is reported that they have now been asked to vote for or against the following statement: “That Steps 3 & 4 continue the current pause in the season with a regular review in the light of changes to the current tiers and/or grants becoming available.”

Voting closes at midnight tonight and results will be known on Thursday.

One issue for clubs at Isthmian League level is that divisions involve teams from different Covid tiers - meaning some will have greater difficulties in travelling than others and things will not be even in terms of who can open their ground to fans.

Another issue is that even in tier two - which Sussex clubs are in - clubs cannot open their bars and clughouses unless they are doing so to serve substantial meals with alcohol.

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The league has been on hold since the first weekend of November and fixtures are piling up.

Meanwhile the Southern Combination League, the level below Isthmian south east, WILL restart as planned, with the first post-lockdown matches planned next Tuesday. Some clubs at that level are in FA Vase action this weekend.

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