Lower league clubs' disappointment at season suspension

Dundonald Bluebell are one of four local sides to have had their season put on hold

Allan Halliday, General Manager, Dundonald Bluebell said that the news was disappointing.

“As a club we must abide by the decision of the SFA,” he said, “however, it does seem that Celtic Football Club’s decision to go to Dubai has put additional pressure on the SFA from the Scottish Government and the lower league clubs have once more been sacrificed as a result.

“That is clearly disappointing.

“We have taken the well-being of our players, management and staff very seriously and have put protocols in place at significant cost that are strictly adhered to.

"The Covid spread at our level is roughly around the same as the premier league – certainly not more. – which makes the decision to only stop lower league clubs playing for a short period seem very strange.

“However, we need to remain positive and hopefully the roll out of the vaccines will allow us to return to the football as soon as possible.

"Our priority is to ensure people’s health.”

Scott Jackson, Chairman, Kirkcaldy & Dysart said that the announcement was inevitable given the current Covid-19 situation.

"The number of positive cases has been increasing week on week and to be honest, common sense had to prevail,” he said.

"A three week suspension of all leagues under the SPFL and Championship will bring piece of mind to all players, management, committee and their families.

"I also wouldn't be at all surprised if they call the season null and void before too long as we still seem to be a long way from eradicating the virus.

He added: “From everyone at Kirkcaldy & Dysart FC please stay safe.”

Once play does resume Thornton Hibs will find themselves in the next round of the SoccerShop Challenge Cup despite not having kicked a ball in round two.

Their home tie on Saturday was called off and afterwards their scheduled opponents, the South of Scotland league’s Nithsdale Wanderers, decided to withdraw from the competition.

The Competition Committee agreed that they would face no sanctions and Thornton will go straight through to round three.