AFC Portchester chairman Paul Kelly willing to take financial hit in order for Wessex League season to restart as planned

The Wessex League have been consulting clubs this weekend to get feedback on whether they feel it is viable for the campaign to restart.

The government's new three-tier system announcement last week has plunged the return of 'non-elite' football in doubt when the nationwide lockdown is lifted on Wednesday.

Clubs in areas placed under tier two restrictions are unable to sell food or drink in grounds while clubhouses will remain closed.

Meanwhile, supporters are not permitted to attend matches involving a home team placed in tier three.

In the Wessex League, 36 of the 39 clubs are in tier two areas - with the remaining trio in tier one - meaning they will be unable to generate crucial alternative match-day income other than gate receipts.

Although Portchester chairman Paul Kelly admitted his club could be operating at a loss under current restrictions, he still wants the season to restart as planned next month.

And he believes the return of football at 'non-elite' level is much-needed.

‘I think we’ve just got to carry on - everyone needs their football,' said the Royals' chairman.

‘We’re just going to have to take a hit and we’ll hopefully be able to lean on the Wessex League of the FA to provide some financial help to provide support for the running costs on a match-day.

‘Obviously, you’ve got the floodlights, officials to pay and any stewarding so there’s going to be a cost to that as well.

‘If we’re only taking gate receipts they probably won’t cover what we have to pay out.

'My personal opinion is that we need to keep football going. It’s what people need.

‘I’m only commenting on behalf of AFC Portchester, I can’t comment on other sides, and whatever they decide is down to them.

‘From Portchester’s point of view, we need football to continue.'

The Royals' first home fixture following the lockdown is due to take place on Saturday, December 12 against Premier Division table-toppers Hamworthy United.

For that, the club had sold out hospitality tickets only to now be unable to provide the service under the tier restrictions.

It means Portchester have been dealt another financial blow in these already difficult times.

‘The FA are stating that clubs are not allowed to open bars - you’re not allowed anything,' added Kelly.

'Our tea hut will be set up in the car park but people are not allowed to bring it into the ground. It’s crazy.

‘We’re sold out for hospitality for the Hamworthy game but we’ve got three different venues that we were providing hospitality for that day which will not be able to go ahead now.

‘We’re going to be out of pocket there, obviously.'

Clubs have up until 8pm this evening to provide their standpoint of restarting the Wessex League season as planned.

A leagues committee meeting for step five and six teams is to take place with the FA on Tuesday.