Mayo Football League voids the 2020 season

The Mayo Football League has informed its clubs that the 2020 season will be voided.

A number of rounds had been completed between July 18 and October 4, when competition was postponed, and while the season was extended to March 21, that only allowed seven weekends to finish off six rounds of the league as well as cup semi-finals and finals, which would require eight weekends (including this weekend).

“As you can see from the time allowed, it is not possible to complete our programme,” Mayo Football League secretary John Durkan explained.

With the 2020 season having 'hung in the balance' for a number of months due to the pandemic, the League Management Committee felt it necessary to make a decision now to alleviate the uncertainty.

“This is a decision that was not taken lightly but after much discussion and interaction with the Connacht FA and the FAI, we feel it is the correct decision in order to allow everybody to prepare properly for the 2021 season,” said Mr. Durkan.

He added: “May I take this opportunity to thank you all for your cooperation and patience during the past 12 months. It has been difficult for all concerned but we did get to play 149 matches from July 18 to October 4, (and) this we were all grateful for.

“When we are given the go-ahead to resume competitive action we will allow everybody to have four weeks to prepare.

“In the meantime, on behalf of the Mayo League, I ask you all to stay safe and follow the guidelines, mind yourselves and mind each other."

As a result of the decision to void the season, all players are now 'free agents' as per FAI rules (a player's registration expires when the season is over) but they can sign for the 2021 season.