FOLLOWING THE SALTMEN

Final to be played at Finalist’s Home Ground?

As you probably already know, the Saltmen have reached the final of the Hellenic League Challenge Cup. They will face Hereford Pegasus who beat Worcester Raiders 4-0 to make the final.

It seems strange then that the final will be played at Hereford Pegasus. As far as I can tell, there is only one Hereford Pegasus FC, so that means Spa will play the final at the home ground of their opponents.

Call me old fashioned, but isn’t it customary for domestic cup finals to be played at a neutral venue? Playing the game at Pegasus clearly gives the hosts a home field advantage. In addition to this, it is a huge benefit to the home supporters who are likely to have a numerical advantage even when Spa’s amazing away support is taken into account.

Now, I realise that the organisers of the competition have to arrange a suitable venue long before the finalists are known, however, it’s hardly a huge shock that their choice could be the home of one of the finalists.

Correct me if I’m wrong, but surely it would make sense to nominate three potential final venues at the start of the season, therefore ensuring at least one would be neutral. There is likely to be a sizeable crowd present, so one would imagine most clubs would be happy to stage the fixture to supplement their bar and food revenue even if it is at relatively short notice.

I would hope the organisers have a contingency in place. After all, a level playing field really should be a minimum requirement.

What do you think?

Cheers

FTS