Newry City confirm withdrawal from this season's Irish Cup

In a statement released by Darren Mullen's side, who were scheduled to play Larne in the round of 32, they said their decision was "heavily influenced" by the fact that the Championship was not granted elite status this season.

The statement said: "After careful consideration and discussion between players, management and committee it has been decided that Newry City AFC will regrettably withdraw from the 20/21 season Irish Cup.

"This decision has been heavily influenced by the fact that our league has not been granted elite status this season.

"A decision to grant our league elite status would have allowed us to play our normal league fixtures and prepare for a cup fixture of this importance in a fair and proper manner, giving the competition the respect its status deserves.

"We will now look forward to a resumption of competitive football next season and welcoming all football fans back to The Showgrounds."

Doubts remain over the participation of all Championship and Premier Intermediate clubs with this year's competition set to be played to completion in May.

READ MORE:

Danske Bank Premiership Team of the Week

Barry Gray questions Irish Cup decision

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A message from the Editor:

Thank you for reading this story on our website. While I have your attention, I also have an important request to make of you.

With the coronavirus lockdown having a major impact on many of our advertisers - and consequently the revenue we receive - we are more reliant than ever on you taking out a digital subscription.

Subscribe to newsletter.co.uk and enjoy unlimited access to the best Northern Irish and UK news and information online and on our app. With a digital subscription, you can read more than five articles, see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Visit https://www.newsletter.co.uk/subscriptions now to sign up.

Our journalism costs money and we rely on advertising, print and digital revenues to help to support them. By supporting us, we are able to support you in providing trusted, fact-checked content for this website.

Thank you,

Alistair Bushe

Editor