It appears Barrow A.F.C will have to wait a little longer for their promotion fate to be decided as the ballot papers from the National League are yet to arrive.

The delay surrounds a challenge from the second tier clubs in The National League to the proposal to deny promotion through the play offs. 

Both the F.A representative and the National League board advanced the theory at last Thursday’s meeting that government guidance meant that NL North and South were not classed as ‘elite sport’ therefore play offs weren’t possible. 

This created a backlash from clubs in both National League North and South, with Havant and Waterlooville manager Paul Doswell declaring that this was incorrect.

“Alan Mak MP was straight down to our ground on Friday to hear our story and get the guidance reviewed and clarified by the Minister of Sport. It clearly states there is no government advice that Step Two are not elite athletes.

“Elite sport is someone who derives an income from sport. It does not say ‘full time’! All players at Step Two derive income from playing football. ALL. Let’s get playing.”

Borehamwood chairman, Danny Hunter went further, suggesting that “due to this shambolic position we find ourselves in due to what appears to be our League and the FA not doing their homework in terms of elite sport, we must pause and take stock.”

Any resolution will need over 50% of the votes to pass. Each National League club has one vote, with North and South receiving four votes per league. Therefore the target for any resolution to pass is seventeen votes.

If play offs are proposed for the two feeder divisions then this will lead to clubs being asked to vote for the relegation of both Fylde and Ebbslfeet, as well as Chorley from the National League. 

Money may yet be a factor. National League play offs will receive financial support from BT Sport to hold play offs whereas the two lower leagues will not. There is some dispute as to the coast of testing required with the likes of Dartford Manager Steve King questioning the cost estimate as incorrect. 

Sport Furness understands there is likely to be no comment from Barrow A.F.C until matters are decided. A board meeting takes place later this week, with the focus very much on ground development and positive next steps.