[Rob K]

Looks like Merthyr have suspended their Southern League season due to Covid. Hope they survive and we see them back next season. 

Hope this does not become a trend with Clubs having to opt out this season.

Good luck to them for the future

[Neil]

This is going to be widespread

[Joe]

I think they've been hit badly because of stringent regulations and now local lockdown in Wales. They said their options are to play behind closed doors, play their home games at a ground in England (us or Cinderford?), or to defer the season. They've opted for the latter, although fans and club staff aren't impressed (no mention of what will happen to season ticket money). Surely players will leave, and will there be a space in the division for them to come back next year?

Poor club. They've been through a hell of a lot over the years. Top bunch of fans too.

[Darran]

I believe they are only going to do it if they are guaranteed their space in the division.

[Severnside]

I believe they are only going to do it if they are guaranteed their space in the division.

Difficult to see how any club can be guaranteed it's place?
Imagine a club finishing in the relegation zone and clubs who suspend there season stay up. I would imagine some clubs lodging legal fights not to get relegated.
I can foresee another season where no relegation/promotion takes place t some levels particularly if a number of clubs get effected by local lock downs,
Also latest announcement that crowds will NOT be allowed at games must throw starting the season or halting crowds at low levels and put clubs at risk. Covids going no where until a vaccine comes in and football's a winter game - well supposed to be!!

[charlie]

BUCS announced over the summer that for University leagues there will be no promotion or relegation this academic year. At least with that everyone knows where they stand before things have started. Obviously there's more money involved in professional/semi-professional sport so things are different though.

[Darran]

Difficult to see how any club can be guaranteed it's place?
Imagine a club finishing in the relegation zone and clubs who suspend there season stay up. I would imagine some clubs lodging legal fights not to get relegated.
I can foresee another season where no relegation/promotion takes place t some levels particularly if a number of clubs get effected by local lock downs, 
Also latest announcement that crowds will NOT be allowed at games must throw starting the season or halting crowds at low levels and put clubs at risk. Covids going no where until a vaccine comes in and football's a winter game - well supposed to be!!

Guernsey have already had their place at Step 4 guaranteed for next season.