North of Scotland Cup could still be on Highland League fixture calendar this season
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ORGANISERS remain hopeful that the North of Scotland Cup will still take place next season, despite the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
The North of Scotland Football Association says a decision on whether the competition will be played in the 2020/21 campaign will be delayed until the end of this year.
If the competition, which was won by Highland League champions Brora Rangers last season, goes ahead, it is likely the tournament will take place in April and May.
It has been confirmed The Highland League will start on Saturday, October 17, but each team will only play 16 matches.
The Highland League Cup is scheduled to take place at the start of 2021 with a first round group stage.
North of Scotland FA secretary Graham Wilson says while the North of Scotland Cup is in limbo this season, they hope that it can go ahead next year.
“A decision on when it can take place has been delayed due to the uncertainties of the return of competitive football,” he said.
“Clubs have also agreed to delay a decision.
“It is felt the focus should be getting the Highland League up and running because the North of Scotland Cup is a short, sharp competition, which can happen over four dates.
“This will be reviewed later in the year, with the hope that it will be played before the end of the season which is scheduled for May.
“The competition has not been binned this season, but has been put in limbo to see what is going on.”
The competition will involve 13 North of Scotland FA members. Nine Highland League clubs including Lossiemouth, Forres Mechanics and Rothes will contest the tournament along with SPFL clubs Caley Thistle, Elgin City and Ross County and NCL club Golspie Sutherland.
