Toolstation NCEL Division One
Selby’s game with Brigg was called off at 7pm because one corner was a bit muddy
Selby Town have been left with a large hole to fill on their balance sheet after their clash with Brigg Town was postponed in farcical circumstances at 7pm last night.
Both teams were ready to go when the three officials and the assessor decided that the pitch was unplayable because of a tiny bit of mud in one of the corners.
To add to the controversy, the pitch was passed fit in the afternoon by a local referee. And since there had been no rain, there was no reason to suspect a late postponement.
It meant that the eight volunteers who worked for two full days to get the pitch in a fit state had their heroic efforts thrown back in their faces. All they got was a big thank you from the club’s chairman Ralph Pearse.
Financially it is bad news for the Robins. As well as the officials’ half-fees and expenses, the expensive cost of electric, food, drinks, raffle prizes and programmes will have to be picked up – despite no revenue coming through the gate.
Over 100 people made the wasted journey to Selby in hope of watching the game. Even Brigg, who travelled some distance, made their fury at the referee’s decision known on Twitter.
Selby’s next game is on Saturday at Glasshoughton Welfare, who played in worse conditions during their magnificent 4-1 win over Shirebrook Town at the weekend.
Eight volunteers worked for two full days to make Selby’s pitch playable…or so they thought
Tonight we arrived at Selby. Then our game was called off after passing an earlier pitch inspection. ☹️ Here are photos of the pitch – it looks good enough to play on, doesn’t it?! pic.twitter.com/dIgkATNEwH
— Brigg Town FC (@officialbrigg) January 23, 2018