As present public health restrictive measures detrimentally impact upon all facets of society, the immediate outlook for a return to the vast green swathes of competitive sporting action remains uncertain as those who afford administration await future directives from Government.
Speaking to the Athlone Advertiser this week, Combined Counties Football League (CCFL ) Secretary, Chris Hand, noted the intention of the sporting organisation, which caters for youth and adult football in the Midlands, to continue with the present 2020/21 season when it is ultimately safe to do so.
“While we await specific directive from the Government and the FAI, it is the present intention of the CCFL to play games in this, the 2020/21 season.
“Even if a return to football activity does not arise until May, I believe, that as a sporting organisation, it is incumbent upon the CCFL to provide teams who wish to compete this season an opportunity to do so,” Chris remarked.
One round of league fixtures were completed at the start of the current campaign before public health restrictions were imposed resulting in the cessation of all football activity.
“We were able to complete the opening round of league fixtures before restrictions were imposed, but should there be a possibility of a return to action in May, there is that opportunity to extend the current season into July with midweek games an option.
“All clubs affiliated to the CCFL are enduring ongoing expenses and it is our intention to be in a position to provide a return to competitive action opportunity but only when we are in a public health position to permit such an occurrence,” Chris added.
