Pikes boss hopeful

The uncertainty over the coronavirus situation and what impact it will have on clubs in non-league means it’s hard to predict what the new season might look like.

But Roberts, and coach Tony Hackworth, says it may benefit clubs like the Pikes.

Speaking to the club’s official website, they said: “There is no doubt that all clubs are going to find it more difficult, sponsorship will be more difficult, and there will financial implications.

“From both our previous experiences at the club we know Pickering is a well run club, and lives within its means, it may well be that there will be a more even playing field within the leagues.

“Our aims are to consolidate and aim for mid table, we both realise that is going to be hard, and the league will be very competitive again, but we are both determined to work very hard and having both been involved with the club previously really want to do well for everybody connected.

“We are already planning for next season, talking to players, having discussions between ourselves, and at the moment planning to start training in June but do fully realise that may well have to change depending on how circumstances develop.”

Pickering sat bottom of the NPL N/West Division when the season was suspended, five points adrift of Kendal Town who had a game in hand.

Had the season continued and the Pikes remained bottom, they would have faced a play-off against a step 5 side to retain their place in the Northern Premier League.

As it is, they now know they will be in step 4 whenever football resumes.