Having not dropped a point since February 2019, Lincoln United Women are now facing the prospect of yet another season in the East Midlands Regional Football League Division One North.
Lockdown has meant that the 2020/21 season has been declared null and void for the Whites, who sat second in the league at the time of the announcement.
Manager Chris Funnell said: “The statement is disappointing because naturally everyone wanted to go on and finish the job that was unfinished.
“To have that taken away from us is extremely disappointing. It’s two seasons on the bounce now that have been declared null and void.”
The Whites won all four of their league games that they could play, scoring an impressive 33 goals.
As a result, many people within the club believe that they should be playing at a higher level. A statement by the FA suggested that teams can apply to move up a division, which the United boss confirmed that they would be doing.
“Naturally I imagine it will only to be promoted up one division,” he said.
Midfielder and club captain Kirsty Dalzell echoed her managers thoughts. She said: “Obviously it’s not the best news, we were really hoping that we could continue to play in the league.
“We had a really had good start to the season, the same as last season. Now we have just to continue to stay motivated and keep on moving forward.”
It was the first season for the club as Lincoln United Women, following the merger between Hykeham Town and Lincoln United. Having scored 33 goals and won all four of their games, they were only second in the table due to having a game in hand on Chesterfield.
According to the Whites’ boss, the worst case scenario of them being denied promotion could raise further problems of a widespread issue in women’s football.
“Not just for Lincoln United Women, but for women’s football across the country, I don’t think that is a good place for a lot of clubs,” he said.
“There a lot of clubs like Lincoln United, that are in a very similar position, not lost in two years and top again – hopefully it won’t come to that!”
With one eye now turning to next season, vice-captain Katie Davison has one clear goal: “I want the treble! I was ready to hang up my boots by winning three trophies, but it looks like I am going to have to wait until next season.”