Non-league football takes financial hit

There has been particular chaos in non-league football this summer with a number of clubs unable to continue at the level they had been playing at, notably Hereford United and Salisbury City.   This had knock on effects down the pyramid with some leagues having to play with a team short.

There has been particular chaos in non-league football this summer with a number of clubs unable to continue at the level they had been playing at, notably Hereford United and Salisbury City.   This had knock on effects down the pyramid with some leagues having to play with a team short.

Some teams have, of course, got a reprieve from relegation, but they may have already been planning on the basis of a reduced budget and may find it difficult to secure the players to continue to compete at a higher level.

Even at non-league level, there are wage pressures from players who are ready to move on for a better offer.  Many are not on contracts, particularly below the Conference level, so there is no transfer fee in compensation.   Some clubs are too dependent on a benefactor or a particular sponsor.   Some fail to budget prudently, while others over extend themselves to reach a higher level.

Some clubs have resorted to ground sharing, but this only reduces one element of the costs and may hit attendances.   Occasionally mergers of clubs do happen, unthinkable at a higher level, and other clubs simply disappear.

Transport costs are high for some clubs such as Lowestoft Town, placed in the Conference North. The distances also reduce the numbers of away fans attending.   Some have argued that below the Conference level, there should be a Midlands division in addition to the Conference North and South.

At least the two clubs in the Isles of Scilly league do not have travel costs as they play on the same ground every week.