Decision to cancel came as a surprise to Vella

Racing Club Warwick chairman Gary Vella said the decision to prematurely end the non-league season has led to a lot of anger among clubs.
Racing Club have lost out on much-needed revenueRacing Club have lost out on much-needed revenue
Racing Club have lost out on much-needed revenue

The Football Association confirmed on Thursday that campaigns for all divisions from Step 3 and below were now over due to the outbreak of coronavirus and that all results would be expunged from the records.

For Racing Club who were hovering nearer the lower reaches of the Midland League Premier it is as you were, with the Townsend Meadow club set to kick off in August in the same division.

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However, for clubs who were closing in on promotion, including leaders Coventry United, the decision was a death knell to their hopes of going up.

“I would have thought that the stage of season and how close some clubs were to promotion that points per game would have been more acceptable,” said Vella.

“A lot of clubs invested a lot of money, particularly in the step below us where there was an opportunity for four clubs to be promoted.

“On social media there is a lot of rejoicing from clubs who were in danger of relegation and that seems to have angered those who were close to promotion as well.

“I expect some tasty fixtures next season.”

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While accepting the decision to curtail the campaign was the right one, Vella admitted the financial implications would be keenly felt.

Racers had nine home league matches remaining, with many other matches also scheduled for the ground which has also lost revenue on the social and functions side.

“The cost implications are huge for many clubs and I can imagine a struggle to survive for some,” said Vella.

“We, of course, will be hit hard, not just with many lost games but with the lost revenue streams we have at the club.

“But having said that we are now financially sound as an organisation and will weather the storm.”

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