Kidderminster Harriers given a date for kick-off

It is expected that the new season will start with some supporter presence, at a reduced capacity, inside Aggborough, the league said in a statement issued to clubs.

National North and South clubs, including Harriers, will begin their season with an FA Cup second qualifying round tie on October 3.

Kidderminster’s league season will consist of either 40 or 42 fixtures and will conclude on May 29, 2021.

Play-offs will take place in June, subject to FA approval.

There were suggestions that the National League seasons would begin in the first weekend of September – a week before the Premier League and EFL begins its campaigns – with a possible National League Day, had a supporter presence been permitted.

But it has now been confirmed Mark Yates’ men will kick off, initially in the FA Cup, almost a month later.

The October start date does at least marry with the government’s announcement that fans can be present at matches. The National League has said this will be at a ‘significantly reduced capacity’.

Harriers last played on March 7 before the National League seasons were ended due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Meanwhile, Andy Morrell’s Hednesford Town have confirmed their pre-season schedule. They will visit neighbours Heath Hayes on Tuesday, August 11, before home fixtures against Stafford Rangers (Aug 15) and Hereford (Aug 22).

The Pitmen visit Rangers on August 29 before a trip to Chasetown on September 8.