RADCLIFFE have expressed their frustration after seeing a return to action come to an abrupt halt.

The Northern Premier League have put it in the hands of clubs as to whether or not they play games over the festive period.

With clubs free to take different approaches, Boro returned to competitive action on Saturday and went down 4-1 at Premier Division leaders Mickleover in a game that saw Lee Fowler’s side end with nine men and the hosts with 10.

They had also hoped to host Lancaster City on Tuesday night but the Dolly Blues decided against playing on Monday, Boxing Day opponents Atherton Colls already having made a similar announcement.

FC United, the planned visitors to the Neuven Stadium on New Year’s Day, are also electing not to play meaning Boro’s next scheduled fixture is not until the trip to Witton Albion on January 9.

A statement read: “Lancaster City on Monday afternoon informed the club that they will no longer be playing in Tuesday night’s fixture at the Neuven Stadium.

“Lancaster advised us due to their Christmas and New Year games being postponed they feel there is no reason to play on Tuesday night.

“As a club we are naturally disappointed with their decision and as these games are optional Lancaster are entitled to make this decision and we respect their right to do so.

“That unfortunately means we will not play competitive football again in 2020, and await further news on when the league season will resume. We have worked hard to find clubs who would like to play, so that we can provide our community with some much-needed entertainment and mental release over the festive period.

“We don’t want to have to rely on goodwill of our supporters.

“We have attempted to make the best of what has been a difficult period for everyone and we will continue to find ways of keeping the club sustainable in these difficult times.

“We are actively engaged in trying to arrange some friendly matches so watch this space.”

The Mickleover clash, the only game in the Premier Division on Saturday, was controversial to say the least.

Boro saw Si Lenighan and goalkeeper Cameron Belford sent off with the home side also finishing the game a man down.

Belford’s dismissal late on meant goalscorer Andy Owens ended the game in goal having converted a penalty six minutes into the second half.

That was one of three spot kicks in the game with Mickleover scoring three times in the last 15 minutes to pick up the three points.

Elsewhere, they may not be sure when they will return to action but Boro have added to their squad with the signing of attacking midfielder Dominic Vose.

The 27-year-old is known to boss Lee Fowler from their time together at Wrexham and was last with Margate.

The Londoner has played in the Football League for Colchester, Scunthorpe and Grimsby among others having come through the ranks at West Ham.

Fowler said: “I really hope we can get back playing as I’ve tried to sign him for a while.

“He’s in the special category. Invest in him as a person and see the magic on the field.”