Caithness amateur football is set for east and west divide
The Caithness amateur football season is set to be split into geographic areas for one season only, to ensure games can be played this year.
The Caithness Amateur Football Association have confirmed plans to introduce east and west divisions for 2021 in a shortened season scheduled to start in the first week of July.
A meeting on Monday night saw clubs agree for two divisions of seven teams playing over a period of six to seven weeks.
While not confirmed, it is being considered the winner of each division could face each other in a final.
The East Division will consist of John O’Groats, Keiss, Lybster, Staxigoe United, Watten, Wick Groats and Wick Thistle.
The West Division includes Castletown, Halkirk, High Ormlie Hotspur, Pentland United, Thurso Acks, Thurso Pentland and Top Joes.
It has also been confirmed Thurso Swifts will not take part this season.
Only league matches will be played, with none of the traditional cup competitions taking place in 2021.
The annual Archer Shield encounter between Caithness and Orkney has also been called off this year.
Caithness Amateur Football Association president Murray Coghill says all fixtures and plans have to be finalised, but everyone agrees this is the best way to ensure any football can be played this summer.
“The proposal was put to them to wait until the end of June as there might not be any restrictions by then,” he said.
“To minimise travelling around the county, we will split the teams into an east and west divide with the Thurso and Wick clubs in separate divisions.
“Fixtures are being drawn up and we are looking to stage one round of fixtures during a weekend.
“That was the best we could offer given the circumstances and it was accepted at the meeting.
“It is planned to go ahead on that basis.
“This season will not be played in the traditional first division and second division format with relegation and promotion.
“It could end up with the top two from each section in a semi final and final or at least the top two in a final, but that is only a possibility.”
