AFTER much discussion, Yoker Athletic FC have decided not to pull out of the West of Scotland Football League and the Soccer Shop Cup Competition this season.

The club spent time considering their options after the news last week that there would be no promotion for Conference sides this season.

They also had to take into account playing matches behind closed doors, no changing facilities or showers available for the players due to Covid restrictions and the costs of travelling to away matches with no revenue.

The deadline for clubs to withdraw from this year’s competitions was 8pm on Friday and while a number of other clubs pulled out, Yoker bosses made the brave decision to throw their hat in the ring due to a lot of hard work commercially during the enforced break.

Yoker chairman Campbell Bissland said: “From the clubs and players perspective, the lack of promotion is a huge disappointment for all the Conference teams.

“However, after a lot of commitment from a number of people behind the scenes during the layoff, we are pleased that the leagues are ready to commence and the club are ready to compete in both the league and cup competitions.”

Yoker co-manager Tommy Montgomerie added: “We are just delighted to have the chance to be back playing football again after such a long break.

“The boys have been working hard in training and in friendly matches and are raring to get started. I believe that regardless of the promotion issues this season that the games will still be highly competitive. There are still trophies and medals to be won in both the league and cup competitions, and make no mistake Yoker Athletic will be trying to win each and every one we are involved in.”

There were a few disappointed faces at the club when the news arrived that they would not be playing in this weekend, on the first day of the season, due to an odd number of clubs in the league. Their season opener will be a week later when they face a trip away to East Kilbride Thistle on October 31.

Yoker Athletic first team were in action under the lights at Holm Park last week where they had a resounding 3-1 victory over Shettleston in what they thought would be their last friendly match before returning to league action.

After finding out they had a free week on opening day it left Yoker bosses Peter McKenna and Tommy Montgomery hastily trying to arrange another friendly.