Everton upset by fixture change

Mar 29 2008 by Ian Doyle, Liverpool Daily Post

EVERTON have expressed their disappointment at the Premier League’s controversial decision to bring forward next month’s mouth-watering home clash with Chelsea by two days.

The game, which was initially scheduled for Saturday, April 19, will now be played on Thursday, April 17 with an 8pm kick-off.

The switch has been made to accommodate live television coverage, with the fixture – which could have a significant bearing in both the destiny of the championship and the race for fourth – being shown on Sky Sports.

Chelsea, who also play in the Monday of the same week, have reacted angrily to the change and accused the football authorities of handing title rivals Manchester United and Arsenal an advantage.

Everton’s main concerns are over supporters who will not be able to attend the game due to work commitments, with tickets for the match having already gone on sale earlier this week.

And a statement from the Goodison outfit yesterday said: “The club is disappointed that this fixture has been moved to accommodate live television coverage.

“Both ourselves and Chelsea were initially approached by the Premier League and asked to make representations outlining any concerns.

“Everton specifically asked the Premier League to consider the impact on our supporters travelling to Goodison Park, their work schedules and other commitments people may have.

“However we were informed today of the decision, despite our representations, that the fixture will be moved.

“We feel this decision sets an uncomfortable precedent of moving fixtures from a weekend to midweek and whilst we fully support and back our broadcast partners we do hope that common sense prevails in the future and sensible alternatives can be reached.”

Chelsea issued a statement of their own insisting the fixture change undermines the integrity of the Premier League.

The statement read: “Chelsea is extremely disappointed with the announcement today regarding the Everton fixture.

“We believe the decision to hold the match on Thursday April 17 undermines the sporting integrity of the competition by giving our rivals for the Premier League title an unnecessary competitive advantage at a critical time of the season, with more recovery time from their previous match and preparation time for their next fixture when we have to play two games during the same period.

“Secondly there has been no consideration given to our fans who will be presented with serious travel, work and other issues.

“And lastly, the decision sets a dangerous precedent in changing match days still further when fixture congestion does not exist and when a sensible solution regarding other television matches that weekend was suggested. Football has benefited greatly from the backing of television and Chelsea as much as anyone else. However this decision is one step too far and we reserve all rights on our position.”

The Premier League responded to Chelsea’s statement and defended their decision to move the fixture.

A Premier League spokesman said: “The compilation of the fixture list is a complex procedure which faces enormous pressure from international match and European competition dates, as well as the need to balance the important requirements of the police and our broadcasters.”

Everton are informing supporters that anyone who can no longer attend the fixture but who has already purchased a ticket can return to the club’s Fan Centre where they can receive a full refund.