Welling fans asked to stay away from FA Cup game against Sheppey United at Holm Park
08:14, 03 October 2020
updated: 09:54, 03 October 2020
Football fans are being asked to stay away from an FA cup tie against Sheppey United today.
The team are taking on Welling United in the second round and away fans were able to book tickets for the game.
However, a change in the rules has meant those travelling to watch the game will no longer be allowed in to the stands.
A statement on the team's website said: "The club has this morning received an update from the FA stating that as we are classed as an “elite” club and we are playing a “non-elite” opponent, no fans of the “elite” club should attend. This means that we are unable to sell tickets to our fans for Saturday’s tie at Sheppey.
"Unfortunately, there will be no Welling allocation for the match and we ask that supporters do not attend on the day as there will be no cash sales."
The club will however be streaming the game from The Wings Bar. Sheppey United are also offering a streaming service here.
Welling Police tweeted confirm officers from the Met will be joining Kent Police at Holm Park in Queenborough Road to stop any fans entering.
It said: "No Welling fans are permitted to enter the ground. If found it may be in breach of COVID-19 regs."
This prompted a response from some confused Twitter users including Mike Wood (@ravemik3) who said: "Your Tweet implies @SheppeyUFC did something wrong? Authorities decided during the sale of tickets that away fans were not permitted."
But the force explained the decision that Welling should have had an allocation was made after the tickets had been released adding: "Nothing was done wrong but we must ensure that fans that the game remains covid secure."
Kent Police has been contacted for comment.
