Durham City's long wait for game continues

Source: Newcastle Evening Chronicle

Jan 18 2010

DURHAM City’s long wait for a game continued when their league clash with Stocksbridge Park at the Esh Stadium was postponed.

City had hoped to stage their first home game for six weeks, but decided against removing the blanket of snow on the 3G pitch.

The last three scheduled games on Durham’s plastic pitch – six in total over the last season and a half – have been cancelled due to plummeting temperatures or snow.

Director of Football Austin Carney estimates the cancellation of recent games against Nantwich Town, Burscough and Stocksbridge have cost them a five-figure sum.

He said: “On two of the occasions, one was on New Year’s Day, we would have been virtually the only game on in the area so it is very frustrating.

“Fortunately, it has not affected our cash-flow in the same way it does other clubs because we have not had a game of any sort since December 12 and no one at the club is paid.

“Hopefully, we will finally get back into action next Saturday at former Football League club Boston United, where there should be a four-figure crowd.

“We then have FC United of Manchester at home at the end of the month, which should be a real money-spinner for us as their fans travel in numbers.

“It is vital we have that game on as it will be huge day for Durham City – and the next two weekends will be a real experience for our young lads.”

Durham, awaiting the outcome of an FA enquiry into fielding an ineligible player in two away games, could yet still play Premier Division football next season.

Carney added: “With Newcastle Blue Star and King’s Lynn going to the wall, the league is down to 20 teams and there is a chance if another club folded then we would not be relegated.

“That would be a stay of execution we would take.

“We have made mistakes this season, but there is a lot of goodwill towards the club and we are moving forward.”