[Brandman]

The FA Trophy regulations are quite clear that all ties must be played within 5 days of the date of the round. So the 3rd Round due on 19th must be played on or before 24th.

The onus is on Maldon to evidence that they are able and safe to play due to their COVID-19 event which caused the late postponement Saturday. The FA will need to be satisfied. Unlike a League fixture where players have to be registered to play in the League a Club can use any of their other players ie Reserves, Youth etc.

I am sure the FA will need to clarify the exact position today and a formal announcement made. Though on this occasion the FA have to consider how the Trophy itself is classed by the Government and the new rules for football clubs below elite status.

As to COVID and 5 days that is the first denominator in this because it is a Rule and both Hampton and Blyth withdrew when COVID-19 events meant they couldn’t play last week within the 5 day window and so forfeited and their opponents had a walkover. One of those to benefit was Frome Town and they too now are in the same position with COVID and Maidstone wait on that like City.

27 ties are decided ahead of the draw for Round 4 later today. 3 are arranged for tomorrow Tuesday thus leaving Maldon & Frome to be ruled upon.

Though Round 4 is set for January 16th no ties from Round 3 can be set for any later than 24th as outlined. The 5 day rule is in the special provisions this year and the NL would expect it to be adhered to to protect its own fixture schedules.

Hope that clears up the administration side of it IF NOT what is actually happening but I am sure the NL and City will require evidence that if the postponed game did take place this week that all protocols would be in place to assure safety for the visiting club even BCD being in operation.