Doncaster Rovers Belles are 'on the right track' - chief executive

Women’s football beneath the top two tiers was cancelled by the FA last week in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Belles had shown improvement under new boss Andy Butler but were still somewhat precariously placed just one place above the FAWNL Division One Midlands drop zone.

The club won FAWSL2 as recently as 2018 but have suffered back-to-back demotions after their main sponsors pulled out and their entire senior squad departed.

Belles were taken over by Club Doncaster last summer.

“We know all the girls, fans and staff were looking forward to getting back out there as soon as they could - but at this time we all consider that secondary to the importance of keeping everyone safe,” Green told the club’s official website.

“With a good few results before this enforced break we can feel very confident the club is on the right track going into the next campaign - whenever that is.

“I don’t want to sound like a broken record, but off the pitch we’re in a really good shape now. Andy Butler and Nick Buxton have come in and all the girls have massive smiles on their faces during training and games, which is what we all want to see.”

Butler tweeted: “Disappointing news but the bigger picture is that everyone stays safe. We’ll be back fitter and stronger. Exciting times for @donnybelles. A huge thank you to the players for their application and willingness to work hard.”

Meanwhile, all men’s football below National League North and South was also cancelled.

Armthorpe Welfare chairman Lee Carmody said: “I'm sure we all feel the disappointment of the season coming to a premature end but I'm also sure we all understand these are unprecedented times and the health and welfare of everyone is far more important.

“On behalf of the club I would like to extend our thanks to the squad, management team, volunteers, committee and supporters for their contribution this year. Once through these difficult times we will of course be preparing for the 2020/21 campaign, in the meantime stay safe.”