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Uncertainty remains over when North Caledonian League clubs can return to action


By Andrew Henderson

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North Caledonian League clubs still do not know when they will be able to return to training or matches after the latest government and Scottish FA update.

It was announced on Tuesday that League One, League Two and the Scottish Women’s Premier League would be allowed to return to action imminently, while clubs still involved in the Scottish Cup can also return.

The North Caley League was among the levels suspended when Scotland returned to lockdown.

Invergordon had been leading the way in Division One, going through their first five matches unbeaten with Golspie Sutherland their closest challengers, while St Duthus are all but out of the title race with just two matches left to play.

Alness United meanwhile are the favourites to win Division Two, where they are currently in second place.

Alness United looked to be in pole position in Division Two. Picture: Callum Mackay.
Alness United looked to be in pole position in Division Two. Picture: Callum Mackay.

They are only one point behind Inverness Athletic, but with three games in hand and Athletic only having one match left it would taking a dramatic change of fortunes to deny Alness the silverware.

Scottish FA president Rod Petrie says they are still working towards the return of amateur football knowing how desperate all involved are to get back playing.

“We are pleased that the First Minister has again recognised the importance of football,” Petrie said.

“Given the sharp rise in infection rates caused by new strains of the virus at the start of the year, it was the right thing to do to assist the national effort to reduce its prevalence during lockdown.

“The preparatory work undertaken with representatives of affected leagues and their commitment to the inclusion of weekly PCR testing, has given ministers the confidence to permit the return of SWPL One and SPFL League One and Two.

“While we are pleased to see the return of these leagues, there remain significant numbers unable to return to play, including the remaining levels of the professional pyramid, elite youth football, club youth football and our amateur and grassroots clubs across both the male and female game.

“We are acutely aware of the desire within those levels to return to playing football.

“We will continue to work with the Scottish Government to ensure they are able to as soon as it is safe to do so.”


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