FANS of both Stourbridge and Halesowen have been left disappointed by the news that this season's derby clashes won't take place over the usual periods.
In a somewhat unexpected break from previous custom, the Glassboys will not meet neighbours Yeltz on Boxing Day or Easter Bank Holiday Monday. Instead the teams will lock horns in midweek fixtures on Monday, September 19 at Amblecote, and on Tuesday, March 7 at the Grove.
Both clubs requested the games to be played as usual after they have proved to be one of the biggest supported games over the past two seasons in the Northern Premier League.
The Yeltz have also contacted the league to ask for an explanation.
League secretary Angie Firth confirmed they have been contacted about the issue.
She said: "The matter has been passed on to the director involved with the fixtures. I can't say what will happen from there but it is being looked into."
Fans immediately took to social media to make their disappointment known.
is the league trying to cut attendances at these games? It makes no sense at all. https://t.co/ty6pezbuzL
— Will (@snw1960) July 15, 2016
Both #No9Derbys on a week night! Some people work you know! Very poor from @evostikleague @halesowentownfc @StourbridgeFC #BankHolidayPlease
— Lee (@Meach86) July 15, 2016
@StourbridgeFC @halesowentownfc both scheduled for midweek games, surely that's a massive loss financially for both clubs.
— Rich Martino (@RichWolf81) July 15, 2016
@halesowentownfc @StourbridgeFC Well that's ruined my Xmas plans then.....
— Dave 'Spag' Hadley (@Spag68) July 15, 2016
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