Gladiators NYD visit to Gainsborough Trinity POSTPONED

Matlock Town's hopes of building on their Christmas Monday win over local rivals Buxton which saw them take over as league leaders from the Bucks have been scuppered as their New Years Day clash at Gainsborough Trinity has been postponed due to Covid in the Trinity camp.

Trinity have informed the NPL that they are unable to raise a side, submitting their case on Thursday morning when more cases of the variant emerged, the Holy Blues having already been hit through Covid and injury, with several members of their team and management missing the 1-1 draw at Grantham Town.

Matlock boss Paul Phillips was obviously disappointed with the news but extended his good wishes to Trinity.

"It's very disappointing and from our point of view, it's the worst thing that could have happened as we'll get behind the other clubs with our games and the other sides up there have the chance to take advantage. But peoples' health is all important and we wish those affected at Gainsborough a speedy recovery. It's one of those things and we'll have to ensure we're fully prepared for the Ashton game next weekend."

Matlock could slip back down to third in the table, as Buxton in second spot, a point behind Matlock and with a better goal difference are at home to Stafford Rangers while third placed Bamber Bridge, two points adrift of the Gladiators having played a game more have a difficult trip to fifth in the table Warrington Town. South Shields, in fourth, five points behind Matlock host Scarborough Athletic and will be hoping to cut into Matlock's points advantage.

Ian Richardson