20/21 Championship Cancelled

At last evening’s NIFL Championship Committee it was agreed to recommend to the NIFL Board that this season should not commence and be null and void.

As a Club we are obviously disappointed that there will be no Championship League taking place for the 2020/21 season.

We fully agree with the sentiments that if any less than 22 games were played in a league campaign it would not have credibility, particularly in relation to promotion and relegation.

Irrespective of not having the Championship League this season it is important that NIFL and the IFA continue to support and with government authorities implement the Championship to Elite status.

The Clubs will now look at a potential competition that could be played in April/May of this year that would include Championship and Premier Intermediate League (PIL) Clubs.

The Irish Cup remains under consideration by the IFA, without competitive football it would be difficult for Championship and PIL clubs to participate in such a high-level competition if it were to get the go-ahead to be played.

It has been a frustrating time for all concerned with the Club, particularly having so many false dawns. The management and players have prepared physically and mentally so often for a commencement, but each time it didn’t happen.

The Mallards supporters have been so looking forward to getting back to watching their team in competitive football, but each time it didn’t happen.

Our Committee and volunteers made behind the scenes preparations on several occasions to facilitate Championship football at Ferney Park, but each time it didn’t happen.

Thank you to all for your patience and commitment, we encourage everyone to comply with government and health guidance and we now look forward to when the Mallards can get back to what the Club is for - playing football.

STAY SAFE