The Football Association have informed FA Vase semi-finalists Consett and Hebburn Town that they are “determined” to finish this season’s competition.
The Northern League duo have both embarked on record-breaking runs to the last four of the Vase for the first time in their history.
A quarter-final win at Atherstone Town helped Consett into a two-legged semi-final tie against Western League club Bitton and Hebburn were paired with Corinthian FC after their last-eight win against Plymouth Parkway.
But the coronavirus epidemic put a hold on both clubs’ preparations for the away leg of their respective ties just days before they were set to go ahead.
An FA Council decision to ratify a move to void the season for the clubs in steps three to six of the non-league system had led to fears that Consett and Hebburn’s dreams of reaching Wembley had been brought to an end.
However, the governing body have contacted semi-finalists in all of their national competitions over the last few days to inform them that they are keeping the situation “under constant review”.
Consett chairman Frank Bell told Chronicle Live: “We have received a call from the Football Association to tell us they want to play their national competitions to a close.
“Obviously that includes our Vase semi-final, so it gives us a bit of hope, but they have said the situation is under constant review.
“I think it’s reasonable that they can’t say they will definitely go ahead because the situation is a very serious one.
“Obviously having the chance to play for a place at Wembley is still there for us at the moment – and that is great for our players, coaches, volunteers and supporters.
“To get a call is wonderful news in these difficult and challenging times.
“But it’s important to put this into context though and we must continue to stay safe to protect our wonderful NHS, our families and our friends of which you are one of.
Hebburn Town’s director of football Stephen Rutherford said: “As a club we are really pleased with the update and we are keeping our fingers crossed that we get a positive outcome.
“For now, we remain focused on keeping everyone safe.”
