PUBLIC health concerns surrounding Covid-19 have led to the postponement of Saturday's Macron Cup Final between 1874 Northwich and Runcorn Town.
Following discussions between the hosts, Runcorn Town, and Halton Borough Council, the North West Counties League’s emergency committee has taken the decision to postpone the cup final 'due to concerns about public health and safety' as a result of coronavirus restrictions in the borough.
A league statement reads: "The League would like to thank both clubs for their preparations for the final, which included full risk assessments for the game based on FA and Department of Culture, Media and Sport guidance allowing spectators to watch football at Step 3 and below in the National League System.
"Despite late discussions between all parties the local authority asked for the game to be played behind closed doors, however, the league and both clubs felt it was appropriate to postpone the game until a time the final can be rearranged with spectators.
"The league and both clubs would like to apologise for the late notice of postponement but this was unavoidable due to the changing position relating to Covid-19."
Tickets sold for this game will still be honoured for any rearranged date, however should anybody want a refund they are advised contact the relevant club that they purchased from direct.
Some of the reaction to the postponement of the cup final:
If fans can’t go to a covid secure open air football ground, why can people go to pubs? Bars? Cinemas? Theme parks? Etc
— 74 LIVE (@1874MATCHDAY) September 25, 2020
The Trafford centre alone is indoor and has tens of thousands pass through its doors per day but thats ok?
Madness
📝 | It adds: "This particular game has not been the easiest for us to manage administratively, and the board adds its sincere apologies for the late postponement and communication."
— Andrew Simpson (@simmo_on_sport) September 25, 2020
The club will contact fans to process refunds as quickly as possible.
My worst fears have been recognised. The decision of some local authorities to ban spectators despite the hard work of all NLS clubs, the FA and County FAs is now putting the whole system at significant risk. A difficult few weeks ahead. https://t.co/0byLiylN3k
— Paul Lawler (@paullawler) September 25, 2020
The right decision.
— Chris Borley (@borley_chris) September 25, 2020
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