National League play-offs in doubt after League Two clubs vote to end season

Although National League clubs voted to bring their season to an early finish last month, the possibility of playing the play-offs at a later date was left open.

The National League opted to wait until the EFL, in particular League Two, decided what to do with their season before reaching a conclusion on whether the play-offs could go ahead.

On Friday League Two clubs “unanimously indicated” to cancel the remaining fixtures and the table is set to be decided using a points-per-game method, but the play-offs will still be played to decide who is promoted to League One.

Crucially, League Two clubs have voted not to relegate bottom club Stevenage which seemingly ends the prospect of the National League play-offs being played.

However, National League leaders Barrow could still be promoted to take the spot of Bury who dropped out of the EFL at the start of this season.

All decisions still need to be ratified by the Football Association and EFL.

League One clubs have also held discussions about their season but no final decision has been made.

An EFL statement read: “Having considered the protocols and costs that would be required to be met to conclude the current season, League Two clubs have unanimously indicated a preferred direction of travel to curtail the campaign in line with the framework outlined by the EFL board.

“In addition, clubs asked for consideration to be given to suspending relegation to the National League for 2019/20 as a result of circumstances created where fixtures cannot be completed. No commitments were made in this respect and the board will now consider the implications of the division’s preferred approach at their next meeting.

“There were varied views shared in League One and it was determined that there would be a further period of reflection and consultation to understand what creative solutions could be implemented.”

Meanwhile, Championship clubs have indicated that it is their wish to play on and conclude the season.