The Northern Premier League have granted permission for clubs to play league fixtures on Saturday.
The NPL and the other Steps 3 and 4 leagues were going to wait until the Tier system review before making further decisions.
However, the NPL claim clubs have approached them wanting to play league games on Saturday. Matches will be only played if both teams agree and if there are no adverse cahnges regarding the Tier system.
The league then plans to restart on Boxing Day – a decision that could have divisive reaction if players, managers, volunteers and committee members have already made alternative arrangements.
The full statement said:
“Following the announcement made on 10th December that confirmed the return of spectators to grounds in Tier 3 areas, we subsequently received a high number of requests from NPL teams asking to play league fixtures from Saturday 19th December.
“In line with the statement issued yesterday morning it was the intention of the Trident Leagues to await notice of the implications of the latest Government review expected on Wednesday.
“However, in view of the number of requests the Northern Premier League Board has taken the decision to permit clubs who are in agreement to play their league fixtures on Saturday 19th December with a 3pm KO.
“Should there be any adverse changes affecting our Steps 3 – 4 as a result of any announcements made on Wednesday, we will advise you accordingly. Otherwise we will look to resume the published league fixture schedule from Saturday 26th December for all clubs.
“This decision is that of the Board of the Northern Premier League.”