SWINDON Supermarine, Highworth Town, Melksham Town and all other Southern League sides will now be able to stream their games online after the Southern League signed a multi-year media rights deal.

The Southern League has agreed a deal with tech company TicketCo Media Services which allows all 82 clubs to broadcast matches live online in a pay-per-view system – something the league hopes will make games more accessible to supporters.

In what is being called a “media rights partnership”, the new streaming deal is supposed to help Southern League clubs “drive fan engagement, develop their own digital strategies, and drive commercial revenue.”

Terry Barratt, Chairman of the Southern Football League said: “The Southern Football League are pleased to have reached a media agreement with TicketCo.

“They are a global player and have the expertise that will enable our clubs to screen games to a high level.

“I am excited at the prospect of our clubs screening matches which will enable supporters worldwide to watch at an acceptable price.

“We look forward to a long-term business relationship with the company and to assist our member clubs in providing a beneficial service to its supporters.”

David Kenny, head of global partnerships at TicketCo Media Services said: “This media rights deal makes online broadcasting available to clubs regardless of size and helps bring football back to the people.

“Via our technology, leagues and clubs now have ownership of their own broadcasting via our hybrid revolution.

“It’s empowering for smaller clubs and will begin to break traditional broadcasting monopolies.

“In the fallout of the greed of the failed Super League it is refreshing that lower league football is now creating a positive revolution of its own focused on making the beautiful game more accessible to fans.

“This deal means clubs have stronger buying power and the tools to improve the fan experience and drive commercial growth.”