This expanded the League's operational radius all the way to the south coast of England, as the number of member clubs increased from 44 to 66.
The new Third Division was formed by clubs of the Southern Football League Division One of the previous season, except for Cardiff City.
Cardiff City became the first Welsh club to enter the League, and since they were the strongest club in Wales in the era, they were invited directly into the Second Division.
Grimsby Town took its place in the new Third Division, thereby being the first club relegated to the League's third tier.
The goal average system was eventually scrapped beginning with the 1976–77 season.