Highland League suspension extended into February with all competitions at League One level and below affected
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THE Highland League will not restart next week as the suspension of lower league football has been extended.
It was confirmed the pause of competitions at League One level and below will continue until at least Sunday, February 14.
The Scottish Cup has also been affected, with fourth round ties due to take place on Saturday, February 20 being postponed and will be used for league fixtures instead.
The Scottish FA says a further update on the 2020/21 season will take place on Wednesday, February 10.
Scottish FA president Rod Petrie said: “The conversations we have had with representatives from the clubs and leagues affected by the temporary suspension have been hugely beneficial.
"We have been able to further communicate the rationale behind the decision in the midst of an ongoing pandemic whilst also hearing at first hand the most important issues facing clubs and leagues at each level of the game.
“We have also been greatly encouraged by the sense of togetherness shown by the clubs and the robustness with which protocols and measures have been implemented in the interests of player and staff safety within football.
“A number of initiatives have been suggested which may help to make the eventual return to playing efficient without compromising safety.
“The decision to extend the suspension is necessary given the Scottish Government’s own extension of existing lockdown measures. Football will play its part to support the collective effort to reduce the spread of the new variants of the COVID-19 virus.
“We are grateful for the input of all groups involved in our online discussions this week and we will continue to liaise ahead of our next public update on February 10th.”
