How Sunderland Ladies’ title hopes could be impacted by men’s National League decision to request season shutdown

The decision could seriously affect Sunderland Ladies’ Women’s National League title tilt, with the Lady Black Cats eleven points clear in first place.

Here, we take a look at the key areas of uncertainty facing the current undefeated league leaders.

WHAT’S THE CURRENT SITUATION?

The National League board has urged the FA to end the season “as soon as possible for the purposes of player contracts”.

In the absence of fixtures, non-league clubs are facing an unprecedented cashflow crisis and many are due to pay their contracted staff this week.

WHAT HAS THAT GOT TO DO WITH SUNDERLAND LADIES?

Although the men’s National League and Women’s National League are separate entities, events in the last 24 hours could still impact Mel Reay’s side.

The men’s National League may set a precedent for the entirety of the men’s and women’s football pyramid in England.

WHAT WOULD THAT MEAN FOR SUNDERLAND LADIES’ TITLE HOPES?

If the National League and FA do opt to cancel the outstanding fixtures, they are not expected to immediately determine the outcome of the unfinished season.

However, the FA are understood to want the same situation to apply all the way down the pyramid.

That means Sunderland Ladies’ season could be declared null and void or decided on a points-per-game basis.

But this will likely depend on which precedent is set by the situation in the men’s National League.

WHAT ARE THE FOOTBALL AUTHORITIES SAYING ABOUT ALL OF THIS?

In a statement, the FA insisted no decisions on the National League and below had been made.

A spokesperson said: "We remain in regular dialogue and consultation with all stakeholders regarding next steps across both the Men’s and Women’s National League Pyramid and grassroots football, following the impact of the Coronavirus.

“No official decision has been made yet, but we will make a further announcement at the appropriate time.

“Our primary concern is for the safety and welfare of clubs, players, staff and supporters during this unprecedented time."