Sunderland Ladies see title hopes shattered as FA issue controversial statement on their season

Sunderland have enjoyed a stunning, unbeaten campaign so far.

They currently sit 11 points clear at the top of the National League Northern division, and enjoy a game-in-hand on second-placed Derby County.

They had also advanced to the FAWNL League Cup final.

The FA have issued a statement in which they confirm that they remain hopeful of completing the season in the top tiers of the women’s game, but tiers 3-7 will see ‘all results expunged’.

That leaves Sunderland’s promotion hopes seemingly in tatters.

Promotion to the second tier is also dependent on a succesful application.

Sunderland had begun that process but today’s statement says there will be ‘no promotion or relegation’.

“In the women’s game, The FA, FA Women’s Board members and the Women’s Football Conference have consulted and reached a consensus regarding the Women’s Football Pyramid,” the FA statement reads.

“The FA and the Leagues within Tiers 3 to 7 have reached a consensus to bring the season to an immediate end and all results will be expunged. This will mean no promotion or relegation of clubs between Tiers 3 to 7. Agreement has also been reached to end the Regional Talent Clubs season, which was due to conclude in April 2020.

“We remain in consultation with the Barclays FA Women’s Super League and FA Women’s Championship Board and clubs regarding the most appropriate way to complete the current season; including the Barclays FA Women’s Super League Academy.”