AFC Fylde will not contest relegation from the National League after abandoning plans to launch legal action

The Coasters had previously looked into launching legal action alongside Ebbsfleet United, who will also be demoted.

It comes after the National League decided to finalise league standings using an average points-per-game system following the suspension of games in March due to the coronavirus outbreak.

The proposals were finally ratified by the FA on Thursday.

But Fylde, who will return to the National League North after three seasons in the top tier of non-league football, now say they will not proceed with a legal challenge for the good of the game.

“AFC Fylde now looks forward to building both on and off the field ahead of a new campaign,” the club said.

“Whilst the club remains disappointed on a number of areas, such as miscommunication provided by the National League at already uncertain times, we wholeheartedly accept as a club that overall it has been a disappointing campaign at Mill Farm and we wish to move forward now and plan ahead for a successful 2020-2021 league season.

“The club can confirm it did explore the potential of legal action in tandem with Ebbsfleet United.

“The reason we are not pursuing any legal action is because it would adversely affect the continuation of the game we love. Teams are looking to be promoted, so with that comes relegation and we reluctantly accept our fate on this.

“If we were to challenge this decision, football as we know it within our respected divisions could be delayed pending a decision being made, which we as a club and a footballing community would not want to see happen.

“We wish the very best of luck to all teams involved in the play-offs over the coming weeks.”

The Coasters added: “Many hours of hard work have taken place at a number of clubs from talented and passionate individuals to ensure football will return. We hope you stay safe and make it an occasion to remember.

“AFC Fylde now looks forward to building both on and off the field ahead of a new campaign, as we aim to secure promotion at the first attempt back to the National League in order for the club to achieve its ultimate goal of reaching the English Football League.

“We are excited to begin the process of welcoming all supporters back to Mill Farm as soon as possible.”

Fylde’s relegation will be confirmed should the play-offs in the National League North and South be played to a conclusion.

The play-off games get underway this weekend.