Back-to-back matches introduced by Rotherham Sunday Football League to cut backlog

A total of 150 matches have been called off so far, leaving many clubs having to play lost fixtures in midweek as well as on Sundays once the lighter nights arrive.

But a ruling allows teams to play back-to-back games against each other, separated by a break.

Pewter Pot and Rangers will be the first to do so when they meet at Claypit Lane at Rawmarsh in the Championship tomorrow.

League secretary Mark Pilley said: “This is the first back-to-back fixture and others could follow. Another is planned for February.

“The teams have a rest in between the two matches and the ruling is that both should not last more than a total of 120 minutes, so basically they will play 30 minutes each way.

“That shouldn't be a problem with substitutes and players will have done it already in cup ties that go to extra time.

“Back-to-back matches are also cheaper for the clubs in terms of referee and pitch fees.”

Premiership team AFC Pot, meanwhile, have withdrawn from the league.

Pot changed their name to Workhouse Gym recently but are understood to have pulled the plug due to a lack of players.

All their results have been expunged from the records, the result of which Joker have moved up a place to second position.

Pot become only the second team to fold this season after Unknown FC of Sheffield.

At 55 clubs, the Sunday League remains one of the most buoyant around.

Added Mark: “We have already had four enquiries from prospective new clubs about next season and if we can take our total to 60 we will be more than happy.

“Rotherham football is in a good place at the moment.”