The National League has allowed this weekend’s scheduled fixtures in its three divisions to go ahead as planned, despite the coronavirus outbreak.
Premier League, English Football League and elite women’s football matches are all suspended until at least 3 April.
The National League made their decision at a board meeting on Friday.
However, Solihull’s game at home to Harrogate on Friday has now been postponed, as has Boreham Wood’s Saturday home match with Torquay.
Boreham Wood made their decision to request a postponement as a result of their long association with Arsenal, who host their Under-23 games at Wood’s Meadow Park home.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was confirmed as having tested positive for Covid-19 earlier in the week.
A Boreham Wood statement said: “We feel we must follow the FA, the Premier League and Arsenal FC’s lead in respect to Covid-19.
“Although Mikel has not visited Meadow Park for some weeks, it was very clear that many of his support staff had attended recent development and youth games held at Meadow Park and all had been in contact with him at the Arsenal training centre.
“As such it has been decided by Wood chairman Danny Hunter, after consultation with the FA and the officials of the National League, that every precautionary measure must be afforded.”
Harrogate quartet in self isolation
Promotion-chasing Harrogate were given the go-ahead to call their game at Solihull off, as four of the Yorkshire side’s employees are in self-isolation.
An announcement was made at 15:00 GMT, 15 minutes before the National League made their statement.
Harrogate, chasing league football for the first time in their history, trail leaders Barrow, who they are due to host on 1 April, by four points.
Barrow are due to host Wrexham at Holker Street on Saturday (15:00 GMT).
The Isthmian League, which involves teams in the south and east of England at levels seven and eight in the English football pyramid, have postponed all this weekend’s matches.
National League statement
“The National League will keep the operation of its competition under constant and diligent review, and will remain in compliance with government advice at all times.
“The Football Association has offered its guidance, and made it clear the decision to continue or to suspend a competition is a matter for each league to make.
“The National League places the welfare and well-being of all those involved in and connected to its competition as the highest priority.
“All clubs and supporters are encouraged to stay up to date with the latest public health advice.”
Source: BBC
