SPFL strikes 18-game deal plus splits for League 1 and League 2

Scotland’s League 1 and League 2 clubs have until April 23 to complete 18 league fixtures after the SPFL rubber-stamped proposals allowing the 2020/21 season to continue.

League 1 and 2 will resume on March 20

If all clubs in both divisions manage to fulfil their fixtures by the agreed date, post-split fixtures will be published to determine promotion and relegation.

Should any club fail to complete their 18 fixtures by April 23 the post-split fixture dates for their respective division will be used to ensure that every club meets the 18-match total by May 6, in time for participation in the promotion and relegation play-offs.

SPFL Company Secretary Calum Beattie said: “Firstly, I would like to reiterate my thanks to our club colleagues, particularly those involved with the Working Group, for their constructive approach throughout this process. We now have a clear route to a definitive conclusion of the 2020/21 League 1 and 2 seasons.

“Despite unprecedented and unrelenting pressures on the fixture calendar, including a condensed Scottish Cup schedule, we have managed to agree on a way forward which delivers the number of games that clubs are seeking but builds in the contingencies required by the SPFL Board.

“I know how much supporters will be looking forward to their team getting back out on the pitch. We can now all turn our attention to the imminent resumption of competitive action in Leagues 1 and 2 this weekend and look forward to an exciting conclusion to all four SPFL divisions.”

The first round of fixtures are due to be played on March 20 with teams playing on Saturdays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays to fit in all the fixtures.

A message from the Editor:

Thank you for reading this article. We're more reliant on your support than ever as the shift in consumer habits brought about by Coronavirus impacts our advertisers.

If you haven't already, please consider supporting our sports coverage with a digital subscription.