Non-league club’s game postponed hours before kick-off after ‘sudden and unexpected news’

Non-league side Yate Town’s match against Poole Town was called off just hours before kick-off on Saturday as the club released a statement explaining the decision

A non-league side announced their match had been postponed just hours before kick-off after “sudden and unexpected news”.

Yate Town confirmed their Southern League Premier Division South clash against Poole Town at Lodge Road ground would not be going ahead on Saturday afternoon. The Bluebells confirmed the decision shortly after 10am.

In a short statement released on social media, Yate Town said: “Today game against Poole Town has been postponed. Due to sudden and unexpected news early this morning and following consultation and cooperation of both the Southern League and Poole Town, it has been decided to call off today’s Southern League fixture.

“All those linked with the club would ask for privacy on this matter. A further announcement will be made in the coming days.”

Shortly afterwards, Poole Town issued a statement of their own, headlined: “Match Postponed!” The Dolphins’ statement read: “This afternoon’s match away to Yate Town has been postponed due to sudden and unexpected news early this morning.

“Following consultation and cooperation of both the Southern League and Yate Town, it has been decided to call off today’s Southern League fixture.

“We send our condolences to all those who have been affected by this situation.”

Yate Town, based in Yate, South Gloucestershire, were 18th in the table, just one place above the relegation zone, ahead of this weekend’s fixtures, while Poole Town were in third.

In seemingly unrelated news, Yate Town announced the death of former player and manager Martin Durnell yesterday.

The Bluebells posted on X: “The club have recently been made aware of the sad passing of former player and manager of the club,

“Martin always conducted himself with all the right qualities befitting of the club and will be fondly remembered by many Bluebell fans and former players.

“Yate Town FC send their condolences to all his family and friends.”