By Scunthorpe United FC to host ELF pilot event
Plans to host an English Football League pilot event could see Scunthorpe United FC fans return to games this month.
On Tuesday, the EFL confirmed their intentions to go ahead despite the government putting the plans under review.
The controversial decision to allow fans into stadiums comes as the government enforces a ‘rule of six’ limit on both indoor and outdoor social gatherings.
Pilot events will be restricted to 1000 fans, as opposed to the initial proposal of 2000.
Some clubs will begin welcoming fans as early as this weekend.
Scunthorpe are scheduled to play against Crawley this Saturday.
As they have also put themselves forward for the pilot event, Scunthorpe could be playing in front of a crowd sooner than expected.
Speaking yesterday, an EFL spokesperson said:
“The League is clear in its view that social distancing can be applied safely in football stadia and that having crowds at matches is an absolutely essential part of helping to protect club finances, which remain under extreme pressure.
“Therefore, the successful delivery of further pilots will be an important step towards getting larger numbers of fans into grounds safely.”
A statement issued by Scunthorpe United FC said:
“Following the news on Tuesday that more pilot events are hoped to take place this weekend, Scunthorpe United can confirm our stance that we would wish to be considered as a host for one of these should the opportunity arise at a time when we have a home fixture.
“We are working closely with the EFL, our local Safety Advisory Group and the Sports Grounds Safety Authority to put ourselves in a position where we can welcome supporters back to the Sands Venue Stadium as soon as possible in accordance with Government guidance, and are hopeful that with protocols in place we’d be selected for a pilot to deliver a safe and socially distanced matchday experience to a small number of fans.”
Contact Gi Scunthorpe News
Email us: scunthorpenews@gi-media.co.uk
