DORCHESTER Town chairman Scott Symes downplayed the Magpies’ dramatic escape from relegation, admitting the outcome was “good for the club”.

Dorchester were on Thursday saved by the FA’s decision to void divisions in Steps 3 to 6 with immediate effect due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Odds were stacked against the Magpies, who languished bottom of the BetVictor Southern Premier South some 11 points off safety with just 10 games remaining.

However, the reprieve was not seen as a huge slice of luck by Symes; the chairman maintained confidence the Magpies could achieve safety on the pitch.

“It’s worked out as it’s worked out,” he told Echosport.

“Yes, we’re not relegated. We had 10 games left to play. Prior to what’s happened on a global scale, all the planning had gone into staying up.

“We were confident we could achieve that, even though it seemed a massive challenge.

“It’s good for the club. We want to be in that league and competitive within it.

“All the opinions on football, something had to be done. Whatever decision was made would be welcome or not, depending on what club you’re at and where you’re at in the football pyramid.”

He added: “There were only two decisions – it was 50/50 – that were being discussed.

“My view was null and void, looking at the practicalities and challenges the FA and different leagues may receive from clubs.

“Not because of the position we were in, but because of the complexities of any decision. It would (be) more difficult to manage a points per game situation.”