BRIDPORT boss Jamie Manley believes there is no other alternative than to end the Toolstation Western League Premier Division season early due to the coronavirus crisis.

Western League chiefs were this week in talks with the FA and all other Step 5 and 6 divisions over completion of the current campaign.

Following those discussions, the Essex Senior League, United Counties League and South West Peninsula League all reported Step 5 and 6 football would cease immediately.

However, the FA has since leant on those divisions to withdraw public statements confirming the decision to end the season.

Should the season end now, Bridport would occupy 19th place as discussions on a ‘points per game’ model to decide promotion and relegation, or a voided season, continue.

Quizzed on whether it would be right to end the season now, Manley said: “I don’t think there’s any other option.

“We haven’t peaked yet with the virus and we don’t know what’s going to happen when that does arrive.

“There’s an emergency hospital just being set up for 4,000 people. That shows how bad it’s going to get.

“I don’t think the league, the FA or anyone has got any other option – at least it draws a line under it.

“Every side’s in limbo. Managers, players, everyone. The best thing is to draw a line under it and move on.

“People can then just concentrate on their everyday lives.

“I know it’s not great because clubs are losing revenue. I just hope when we come out the other side that we don’t lose any football clubs and everyone’s still up and running.”