THE Football Association has confirmed matches and training in steps three to six of the men’s national league system (NLS) and tiers three to seven of the women’s football pyramid will be suspended during the upcoming lockdown period.

The suspension also covers matches and training in regional NLS feeder leagues, the Women’s Super League academy league, FA girls regional talent clubs and indoor and outdoor youth and adult grassroots football.

This includes Salisbury FC - who are unbeaten in their last seven games and just beat Tiverton Town 6-0 in the FA Trophy - as well as Laverstock & Ford, Amesbury Town, Bemerton Heath Harlequins and Downton FC. 

“Restarting football at these levels has taken substantial determination and commitment from stakeholders across the game and The FA would like to thank everyone for their vital contributions,” a statement from the governing body read.

“However, health and well-being remain the priority, so it is extremely important that clubs, players, coaches, match officials, league officials, volunteers, parents, carers and facility providers adhere to the UK Government’s new national Covid-19 restrictions during this period.”

It added that its aim is to ensure that the 2020/21 season is completed at these levels and will liaise with the relevant leagues in the NLS and WFP and the County Football Associations [CFAs] to provide support and establish appropriate options to do so if required.

Tonight will be the last chance to catch any live football before the lockdown comes into place.  

  • Salisbury are at home to Laverstock & Ford in a last-minute friendly after Gosport Borough decided not to travel to the Ray Mac this evening.
  • Bemerton Heath Harlequins are away to Hythe and Dibden in the Sydenhams Wessex Football League Division 1.
  • Amesbury Town host Horndean.