The2019–20 North West Counties Football League season was the 38th in the history of theNorth West Counties Football League, afootball competition inEngland, and the second season following the split of the lower level into two geographically separated divisions. Teams are divided into three divisions: Premier Division, at Step 5, and Divisions One North and South, at Step 6.
The allocations for Steps 1 to 6 for season 2019–20 were announced by the FA on 19 May.[1] These were subject to appeal, and the North West Counties' constitution was subject to ratification at the league's AGM on 15 June.[2] As one appeal was not yet heard until after the AGM, ratification of the constitution had to be delayed until after the hearing was held.[3] The FA confirmedCarlisle City's transfer to theNorthern League at its hearing, thereby rejecting the club's appeal against it[4] and ratifying the constitution.
As three new divisions (one at Step 4 and two at Step 5) were to be introduced to theEnglish football pyramid for the 2020–21 season, at the end of this season, three teams were to be promoted from the Premier Division and four from each Division One.[5]
As a result of theCOVID-19pandemic, this season's competition was formally abandoned on 26 March 2020, with all results from the season being expunged, and no promotion or relegation taking place to, from, or within the competition.[6] On 30 March 2020, sixty-six non-league clubs sent anopen letter to theFootball Association requesting that they reconsider their decision.[7] Consequently, the addition of three divisions in the football pyramid was fulfilled in 2021–22 instead.
Updated to match(es) played on 14 March 2020. Source:NWCFL TablesNon League Matters Rules for classification: 1) Points; 2) Goal difference; 3) Number of goals scored; 4) Number of matches won; 5) Head-to-head results[9] Notes:
^abSkelmerdale v Bootle match on 29 Feb was declared void, and its outcome has been removed from the table.[8]
^Charnock Richard were deducted three points for fielding an ineligible player in a match won on 12 November.
Updated to match(es) played on 14 March 2020. Source:NWCFL Tables,Non League Matters Rules for classification: 1) Points; 2) Goal difference; 3) Number of goals scored; 4) Number of matches won; 5) Head-to-head results[9] Notes:
^AFC Darwen were penalised eleven points for use of an ineligible player in a number of games.[8]
Updated to match(es) played on 14 March 2020. Source:NWCFL Tables,Non League Matters Rules for classification: 1) Points; 2) Goal difference; 3) Number of goals scored; 4) Number of matches won; 5) Head-to-head results[9] Notes:
^Stockport Town were deducted three points for transgression of league rules.