Disappointed Spalding United boss Matt Easton feels the BetVictor NPL fixture makers have been “unfair” after forcing his side to play a fixture at Frickley Athletic this Saturday (3pm).
This weekend had always been a free one in the Tulips’ schedule, so a number of the players and staff had arranged to go on breaks in the absence of a game.
The league then saw fit to move forward Spalding’s November trip to Frickley to this Saturday and, despite their protests, the game will go ahead.
Easton, who is one of those to have made plans for the weekend, is less than satisfied with how the league have treated his team.
“This Saturday had always been free,” said the Tulips boss. “Plenty of the squad are away as a result – but the league suddenly decided to bring this game forward with about ten days’ notice.
“To say I’m not impressed is an understatement. It’s poor planning from the league in my view – there was absolutely no consideration of our situation. It’s not like we’re in a bad position game-wise – we’d have to have four games postponed to be in any danger of not getting our games in at this point.
“I just feel like there was no consideration of us as a club, the fixtures haven’t been kind to us in recent weeks.
“We’ll obviously fulfil the fixture. But, from my point of view, why should I or any of the players have to give up something we’ve booked because the league decided to make a needless change?
“It all feels very unfair, but there’s nothing we can do about it.”
Easton could be without all of his first-choice midfield, with Lewis Brownhill and Ben Greenwood away, Kegan Everington banned and George Zuerner (hamstring) doubtful.
Neal Spafford is also out as he awaits news of a scan on his knee injury, which is feared could keep him out for the rest of the season.
Despite having a host of players out, Easton is hopeful his side can give Frickley – now managed by former Spalding player and manager Dave Frecklington – a run for their money.
He added: “They are a good side, one of the best in the league. Dave will have them pumped up and playing well, you can be sure of that.
“Our injury problems may see us line-up a little more defensive-minded than usual, but we’ll give it our bet shot.”
Spalding are on a seven-game winless run and sit in tenth, while Frickley are four points back in 14th.
