North Caledonian League still on course for October 17 start
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THE North Caledonian League is still on course to kick off its season in two weeks' time, despite the Highland League delaying the start of its campaign to the end of November.
North Caledonian Football Association president Iain Whitehead says there are no plans to delay the start of the season, which is due to begin on Saturday, October 17.
The Highland League, which was due to begin on the same weekend, has been pushed back to Saturday, November 28, at the earliest.
One of the main reasons behind that decision was the inability to allow spectators into grounds due to the rise of coronavirus cases in Scotland.
Highland League clubs fear the lack of match-day income could have a big impact on finances owing to no fans being admitted.
North Caledonian League matches do not charge admission for games. Mr Whitehead said that as this is not a factor they see no reason to delay the start of the campaign.
“We are carrying on as planned and when we are allowed to play we will play,” he said.
“Clubs in the division are not reliant on fans for tickets in the way Highland League clubs are. Most of the clubs in the division play on public parks, so they have never been reliant on it.”
Thurso and Halkirk United will play in Division One with Golspie Sutherland, Invergordon, Orkney and St Duthus.
Division Two will feature Alness United, Bonar Bridge, Bunillidh Thistle, Inverness Athletic, Loch Ness, Nairn County U20s and Scourie.
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