Pathetic!

The 2020-21 Cymru North and South seasons have been scrapped.

Tier 2 clubs which have been kept in limbo for months tonight learned they will not kick a ball now until next season – whenever that may be.

Despite promises of a start at the end of March with each team to play 15 matches, the end result is only disappointment.

This means the only league in Wales which will complete (as well as start) the 2020-21 campaign is the Cymru Premier, which carries the ‘Elite Status’ refused to the Cymru North and South.

The Football Association of Wales released the following statement this evening:

“The Football Association of Wales has received clarification that the JD Cymru North and JD Cymru South have not had their ‘Elite Status’ designation reinstated by the National Sport Group (NSG).

“As a result, the 2020/21 season has been cancelled for these competitions due to the ongoing public health crisis and the current Welsh Government COVID-19 alert level, leaving insufficient time to safely complete a reduced season.

“The NSG includes representation from Sport Wales, Welsh Sports Association, Commonwealth Games and the Welsh Government.

“The FAW fully understands the frustrations felt by many throughout the country of not being able to play, volunteer and support their clubs. However, these are unprecedented times and the FAW is not responsible for the national COVID-19 policies and guidelines, which are in place to keep the nation as safe as possible.

“The FAW continues to encourage that everyone follows the Welsh Government guidelines to limit the spread of COVID-19.”

Cymru North clubs excited at the prospect of a thrilling two months ahead now face only despondency.

Cymru North club Gresford Athletic posted on Twitter: “@GresfordFC accept and understand the decision from the National Sport Group and @FAWales, but we cannot help but feel disappointed to not be able to play the 2020/21 season and also frustrated with how long it took to eventually find out the decision.”