Fans set to return for weekend friendlies
Non-league clubs across the Black Country and Staffordshire are set to welcome fans back this weekend after being given the green light by the FA.
From Saturday, clubs at step three and below are – at long last – allowed 15 per cent of ‘the minimum ground grading capacity’ at their level. It will then go up to 30 per cent from August 31.
The news is a massive boost to Rushall Olympic, who are set to host Boldmere St Michaels in a friendly on Saturday (3pm).
As the Pics play in the Southern League Premier Division Central, they can have up to 300 socially-distanced fans at Dales Lane, and boss Liam McDonald said: “It’s great for us, and non-league football as a whole.
“Health is paramount, but hopefully we can encourage some people to come along and help our club after some difficult months.”
Hednesford Town are also due to welcome supporters to Keys Park for the first time since March as they play Kettering, and will also be allowed up to 300 fans.
Up to 150 fans can watch step five club Sporting Khalsa take on Alvechurch.
Halesowen Town go to Leicester Road, but delighted gaffer Paul Smith added: “I’m sure people will be sensible. The fans are crucial. We’re nothing without them.”
