Contents
Weekday Clash Sparks Outrage Among Fans
Peterborough United has expressed its frustration over the decision to schedule their FA Cup third-round match against Everton on a Thursday evening. The League One side is set to face the Toffees at Goodison Park on January 9, a timing that has left many fans feeling neglected and disappointed.
Scheduling Conflicts and Fan Needs Ignored
The Football Association’s decision appears to stem from a scheduling conflict with Everton’s city rivals, Liverpool, who are also playing at home that week. However, Peterborough United argues that the needs of their supporters were not adequately considered in this decision.
With no viable train services from Liverpool to Peterborough on the evening of the match, fans are left with no choice but to travel by car or coach. This inconvenient scheduling means that many supporters will need to take time off work to attend the match, while younger fans will be unable to go due to school commitments.
High Hopes for a Memorable Match
Peterborough United has never played a competitive game at Goodison Park, and excitement among fans is palpable. The club’s chief executive, Dawn Gore, highlighted the high level of interest in the match, stating that many supporters were eager to secure tickets as soon as the draw was announced.
“When the draw was made on Monday night, we were all very excited about travelling to Goodison Park,” Gore said. “To learn that the game has been arranged for a Thursday night is bitterly disappointing.”
Financial Implications for the Club
The club is also concerned about the financial implications of the weekday match. A reduced home attendance due to the inconvenient scheduling could lead to a significant loss of revenue for both Peterborough United and Everton. This is particularly concerning for a club competing in Sky Bet League One, where every penny counts.
Fans Express Their Discontent
Social media has been abuzz with discontent from Peterborough fans who feel sidelined by the FA’s decision. Many took to Twitter to voice their frustrations, with one supporter lamenting, “Can’t even go as I have no holiday entitlement left.”
Another fan echoed the sentiment, stating, “Yet again it’s the fans that suffer.” The backlash has been widespread, with supporters expressing their anger and disappointment at what they see as a total disregard for matchday fans. Comments such as “Thursday night is scandalous” and “Appalling” have been common among the reactions.
A Call for Change
Peterborough United is urging the FA to reconsider the scheduling of the match. The club has made its feelings clear to football authorities, stressing the importance of taking fan needs into account when making such decisions. “We do not feel the supporters have been considered in this approach,” Gore stated.
As the match date approaches, fans are left hoping for a resolution that will allow them to support their team in person. The excitement of facing a Premier League opponent like Everton is overshadowed by the logistical challenges posed by the current scheduling.
Looking Ahead
With the FA Cup match drawing nearer, the pressure is on the football authorities to find a solution that accommodates the needs of fans. Peterborough United is determined to advocate for its supporters, hoping that their voices will be heard in the corridors of power.
As the situation unfolds, one thing is clear: the passion of football fans is unwavering, and their commitment to their clubs remains strong, even in the face of disappointing decisions.
