Gladiators & Spireites come together to celebrate the life of Ernie Moss

The always popular Matlock Town v Chesterfield pre season match at the Proctor Cars Stadium this coming Wednesday night will have extra poignance this year following the recent passing of Spireites legend Ernie Moss.

The 71 year old is Chesterfield’s record goalscorer who after retiring from playing had three years in charge of the Gladiators. In his final season with Matlock in 2003/04 he led the Gladiators to promotion, finishing as runners up to Hyde United in the NPL First Division, Matlock also lifting the Derbyshire Senior Cup after overcoming Ilkeston Town in a two legged final.

The friendly game between the Gladiators and the Spireites was always a special day for the Moss family who will be attending the game on Wednesday as special guests of Matlock Town.

A minute’s silence was held on Friday when Matlock beat another of Moss’ former clubs in Mansfield Town.

But on Wednesday the intention is for it to be more of a celebration of Ernie’s life as daughter Nikki has requested that there be a minute’s applause and she would like the crowd to chant “Ernie, Ernie, Ernie “

It is sure to be an emotional night when a huge crowd is expected not only for the first Matlock game since the easing of Covid restrictions, but to honour a true footballing character.

Matlock officials advise spectators to arrive in good time ahead of the 7.30 pm kick off to aid with smooth entry of fans into the Proctor Cars Stadium.

Ian Richardson