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Lichfield City fans delighted as club announce new manager

Midland Football League outfit Lichfield City unveiled its new manager on Sunday evening, with supporters welcoming the news.

Former Atherstone Town boss Ivor Green takes over the reins at the City Ground after previous manager Jamie Hawkins left the club in February.

During his time with The Adders, Green led them to three cup finals and will begin his tenure ahead of the 2020/21 campaign.

A statement from Lichfield City read: “We are delighted to announce that Ivor Green has been appointed as our New Manager for the 2020/21 season, everybody involved with Lichfield City FC would like to welcome Ivor to the Club.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank Scott Cooper and Darren Walkeden for taking over the management roles towards the end of the season.”

Green guided Atherstone Town to three cup finals during his tenure

City fans were jubilant at the news of their clubs appointment, with many taking to social media to express their delight.

One supporter wrote: “Congratulations Lichfield City on appointing Ivor Green. Great move.

Another said: “Sounds like the perfect fit for both. City are well prepared to climb the pyramid and I’m sure Ivor’s got a decent book of players who can take them to the next levels. Good luck!”

“All the best Ivor Green – top man and top manager” a fellow club follower stated.

Lichfield were 5th in MFL Division 1 when the decision by the FA to cancel the non-league season from steps 3 to 6 amid coronavirus was announced.

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“There’s just no clear answer” – Eccleshall manager assesses season cancellation

North West Counties Football League outfit Eccleshall were sitting in 7th place in the First Division South when their season was cancelled and joint-manager Kyle Adams gave his thoughts on the situation to Sport in Staffs.

The FA announced on Thursday that the 2019/20 campaign for non-league clubs from step 3 to 6 would be made void amid the coronavirus pandemic.

“It’s obviously disappointing that the season has ended but it was inevitable really given the current circumstances,” said Eagles boss Adams.

“In terms of the decision to void the season, opinions are obviously always going to differ.

“For us, we still had an outside chance of promotion but there are a lot of clubs who were almost nailed on to be promoted. It was always going to be a difficult decision to make for The FA, though.”

Adams said there was no easy way forward with the length of the pandemic largely unknown.

Eccleshall were in 7th position in NWCFL Division 1 South when their season was cancelled

He commented: “What do you do, wait and see what happens? We could be in this situation for a good few months yet.

“I’ve heard a few people say play the season and out and then go straight into next season – it’s near impossible. Leagues then have to be sorted out pretty much instantly with promotions and relegations. It wouldn’t work.

“There’s just no clear answer that would present itself as completely fair or correct. It’s a unique situation that everyone has to accept is difficult to work out.”

Adams, who co-manages Eccleshall alongside colleague Craig Bould, stated that the decision would impact many clubs.

“There will be some clubs that will struggle and maybe even go under. I really hope that doesn’t happen but unfortunately finances will dictate.

“In terms of ourselves at Eccleshall, we’ve got good stability off the pitch and it helps that we haven’t had a player budget during the season. It will obviously impact us with that lack of income etc and having to cancel big fundraising events but we should be okay moving forward.

“If we’re honest though, in the grand scheme of things, it’s not an important thing right now and however hard people have worked this season the most important thing is the well-being of everyone in and outside of football.”

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“Clubs will fold” – Rocester manager on cancellation of season

The manager of Rocester has stated many clubs could face the worst case scenario after the non-league football seasons from Step 3-6 were cancelled.

The FA announced the decision to ‘expunge’ the campaign on Thursday, stating that there would be no promotions or relegations for the 2019/20 season.

Romans boss Paul Wright says the move could see some non-league clubs fold due to financial strain.

“Clubs with players on contracts at step four, five and six will fold, I reckon,” he told Sport in Staffs.

“I don’t believe the season should be cancelled. It needs to be seen out.

“There is a solution. When it can be played, carry on with it over a period of five weeks, then carry straight on with the next season.”

The former Eastwood Hanley manager said that Rocester, whom he joined in September last year, would most likely not succumb to this fate.

“Thankfully at Rocester we are in a good position as we have very good people in charge of the club,” he said.

“They have ensured we don’t have a huge outgoing each month.”

Wright also reacted to the news on Twitter, stating: “Stay safe, Look after each other and we will return to normality sooner or later.

“Thank you all our amazing volunteers Rocester for making our club great.

“Well the season wasn’t supposed to end like this however, what we are going through is unprecedented.

Rocester were 9th in MFL Division 1 when football was suspended earlier this month

“Football comes second. Whenever we are ready to resume our beautiful game, rest assured the team will be fully prepared for the challenges that await next season.”

Rocester, who were 9th in Midlands Football League Division 1, released a statement on the cancellation of the season.

It read: “Understand there a lot of teams that this will affect however, as we are mid-table, it doesn’t affect us apart from the obvious lack of match day income.

“It was a season of ups and downs but we have enjoyed it nonetheless.

“Time to start planning for next season.”

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Staffordshire reacts to non-league season cancellations

The Staffordshire football community has reacted to the news that the step three to six football seasons have been cancelled.

On Thursday, the FA announced that the season would be made void, with all results “expunged.”

The news came as a bitter disappointment for many clubs while others were a little happier.

Leek Town were top of the Northern Premier League South East Division.

Chairman John Eeles stated: “People, it’s disappointing for any Club who would have benefitted from Points Per Game & particularly Leek Town.

“But there are far bigger issues on our doorstep at the moment. Stay safe and see you next season – we will need you more than ever.”

Striker Tim Grice commented: “Only waited nine years to get promoted and the season ends up null and void.

“There’s always next season and health is paramount, stay safe people!”

Nigel Miller commented: “I’m a Chasetown fan and this doesn’t affect us but I think it’s a shocking decision.

“Season is 75% complete so surely enough games have been played to uses Points Per Game to decide final league standings.

“Leek and Stamford have been head and shoulders above the rest and don’t deserve this.”

There were mixed emotions after today’s news was announced

Brocton follower Dave Wheldon, who were in a Midland Football League Division 1 promotion spot, said: “The hard work put in all season by players management and lots of volunteers who give free time up to help clubs run every year – just to be told all the hard work counts for nothing this season.

“Surely that cannot be right in anyone’s eyes.”

Rocester’s manager Paul Wright, whose team plays in the same league, also stated: “There is no right way for this to be ended. The only reason I can see for this to be done from Steps 3-6 is to safeguard clubs financially.

“Clubs may have contracted players with no income. Either way it’s not right and I feel for the teams that miss out.”

Stafford Town, who were bottom of MFL Division 1, tweeted: “Brilliant for us, heartbreaking for others.”

Meanwhile, North West Counties Football League outfit Eccleshall posted: “So we can officially confirm our season over!

“Whilst disappointing, there are of course far more important things right now which require all of our attention. A big thank you to all the players & staff for their hard work in what was shaping up to be a successful season.”

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FA: Step 3-6 football seasons cancelled

The Football Association announced on Thursday afternoon that all non-league football leagues from step three to six will have their seasons cancelled as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.

It also confirmed there will be no promotions or relegations between these steps as a result.

The sporting authority said that these are “challenging circumstances for English football” and “all decisions taken are in the best interests of the game.”

A statement from the FA said:

“The National League System (NLS) and the women’s football pyramid were able to build a consensus amongst their leagues and, where possible, aimed to create a consistent approach across all leagues, whilst taking into account the unique characteristics of each individual league.

“As a result, The FA and NLS steps three to six have reached a consensus that their 2019-20 season will now be brought to an end, and all results will be expunged.

“This will mean no promotion or relegation of clubs between NLS steps three to six, and no promotion to NLS step two.

“Furthermore, we can now confirm that we have decided that all grassroots football is concluded for the 2019-20 season. This will allow the game to move forward and to commence planning for next season.”

No football has been played across all these divisions since March 16.

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Cancellation of step 5 & 6 football season “not the case” – FA

Contrary to recent speculation, The FA has stated that step five and step six non-league football has not been cancelled with talks still “ongoing” about how to move forward with the situation.

All professional and grassroots football has been suspended due to global coronavirus outbreak with authorities discussing whether to eventually continue the season or to make it void.

There has been a lot of confusion among Staffordshire clubs after rumours surfaced that the FA had cancelled the season.

However, Sport in Staffs has learned that this is not the case with the FA stating that discussions have not yet been concluded in regards to the matter.

A spokesperson for Staffordshire FA told Sport in Staffs: “These discussions are ongoing between The FA and National League System Leagues.

The Step 5 & 6 seasons have NOT been cancelled yet, say The FA

“Once we have received an update from The FA on the matter we will communicate that accordingly.”

Further to this, a letter circulating on social media from National League System manager Matt Edkins which stated that reports suggesting that the step five and six seasons were cancelled “was not the case.”

The letter stated: “It has been brought to our attention that communications have been made on Twitter (and possible other sources) that it is The FA’s decision to cancel all Step 5 & 6 football for 2019/20 with immediate effect.

“We would remind Leagues that this is not the case at this stage. The meeting this afternoon was to listen to the views of the Step 5 & 6 Leagues and no decision is to be communicated at this point.

“Can I ask for any communications to be removed with immediate effect.”

Currently as it stands, the season, as with any year, is due to be completed by April 25.

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Northern Premier League wants to "terminate the 2019/20 season immediately"

The Northern Premier League says it and two other leagues want to terminate their respective 2019/20 seasons with immediate effect.

The NPL along with the Isthmian League and Southern League, who all cater for step three and four outfits, is currently suspended due to the outbreak of coronavirus.

Staffordshire outfits Stafford Rangers, Kidsgrove Athletic, Chasetown, Newcastle Town and Leek Town all play in the NPL while Tamworth and Hednesford Town are members of the Southern League.

A statement released by the league today said the decision will ultimately rest with the FA.

The statement read: “The NPL, Isthmian and Southern Leagues are unanimous in wanting to terminate the 2019/20 season immediately.

“Whether that is done on the basis of determining the final placings via average points per game, or the season is declared null and void cannot be decided until the National League’s intentions are confirmed.

The Northern Premier League, Southern League and Isthmian League say they all want the 2019/20 season terminated

“The NPL, Isthmian and Southern Leagues have made the FA of their wish to terminate the 2019-20 season, although any such decision has to be ratified by FA council.

“While this process is on-going, competition issues can then be decided, together with the implications for promotion and relegation.

“The league, via the Alliance, is lobbying the government, the Premier League and others for additional financial assistance.

“A recent survey amongst NPL clubs estimated the impact of Covid-19 on those clubs to be over £3.25m

“The NPL will continue to provide its member clubs with as much information, support and guidance as possible to assist them during this difficult time.”

As yet, The FA is yet to release statements regarding the conclusion of grassroots football, including step three, four, five and six levels.

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Club legend revealed as new Kidsgrove Athletic boss

Kidsgrove Athletic have unveiled their new boss.

Scott Dundas takes over the reins at The Grove after leaving league rivals Chasetown in February.

Dundas helped the club win a league title, a league cup and was part of the famous run to the FA Vase Semi-Final in his tenure with the club in the 1997/98 season.

He netted no less than 53 goals that campaign.

Upon his arrival, Dundas said: “I started here in 1992 with Pete Ward so to be back as the manager is fantastic and I have a great rapport with the fans.

“I like to play fast and attractive football and my teams score goals, and I want to be competing at the right end of the table.”

Dundas was unveiled as the new Kidsgrove Athletic manager on Monday afternoon

Kidsgrove Athletic Vice-Chairman Ian Cooper said:

“The club are extremely pleased with Scott’s appointment and given Scott’s history with the club I’m sure it will be popular with our supporters as well.

“With all clubs facing uncertain times, Scott will be given time to build the team he wants, to play the football he wants to play.”

A spokesperson for the club stated:

“Dundas will be accompanied by Ant Buckle who has previously managed the Grove.

“Everyone would like to welcome Scott and Ant back to the club.”

The news comes after Ryan Austin left the club last week before all-time top goalscorer Anthony Malbon signed a new two-year deal the Northern Premier League South East Division outfit

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Kidsgrove Athletic all-time goalscorer to stay until 2022

Photo credit: Paul Griffiths (@speeder8)

Northern Premier League South East Division outfit Kidsgrove Athletic has announced its all-time top goalscorer has signed a new two-year deal.

Anthony Malbon has netted 147 for The Grove since arriving from Stalybridge Celtic in 2015.

The 29-year-old has notched 13 goals so far this season, including a hat-trick against Wisbech Town during the teams 5-0 win in November.

He has the astonishing record of finishing as top scorer for Kidsgrove in every season he has played for the club, scoring 32 goals last campaign.

Malbon has scored 147 goals for Kidsgrove Athletic

In a statement, Kidsgrove Athletic said: “Kidsgrove Athletic are delighted to announce that all-time top goal scorer Anthony Malbon has agreed a new two year deal with the club.

“Kidsgrove could not be more pleased to get our club captain and talisman on board for a further two years.”

The news comes after the club parted company with manager Ryan Austin on Thursday.

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Manager Ryan Austin departs Kidsgrove Athletic

Northern Premier League South East outfit Kidsgrove Athletic have announced manager Ryan Austin has left the club.

The former Burton Albion player had been at the helm since August 2016.

The Grove currently sit 10th in the table having not won in seven games with the season now currently suspended due to coronavirus.

“The decision is not one taken lightly but after three years at the helm the clubs hierarchy felt it was time to review the teams management.

“Despite what now seems to be a premature end to the current season, recent results had all but ended the clubs play off ambitions.

“As a club we would like to acknowledge Ryan’s achievements in what was his first managerial role.

“In particular, the clubs FA Cup runs along with cementing the club in the league after years of relegation scraps.

“We would like the place on record our thanks to Ryan and wish him every success in the future.“

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