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Posted by Stephen Killen @_StephenKillen 
From next season (2026/27), playoffs will be extended to six teams in step three and step four.
Top will receive automatic promotion, second to seventh will qualify for the playoffs - following the same structure in the National League, North and South.

"Second and third will go straight into in the playoff semi-finals.
First eliminator 5th vs 6th, second eliminator 4th vs 7th.
If a team fails to meet eligibility, they will not be replaced - leaving highest team to go straight into SF and others to play in eliminator.

I’m led to believe the regular season will end a week earlier. There is the possibility of an additional round of midweek fixtures to avoid the season extending."    


 

Last edited by Matchman (13/1/2026 5:00 PM)