AFC Fylde hopeful Chester match will go ahead though season hangs in balance

National League North clubs are in the process of voting on whether to scrap the season because of a funding crisis but are being asked to play on until results are known.

Only one of Saturday’s 11 scheduled fixtures went ahead, with Fylde’s game among the casualties because opponents Guiseley were unwilling to play under the circumstances.

Tonight’s hosts Chester are also reluctant to play but say they are prepared to do so rather than risk sanctions from the National League.

It’s particularly difficult for the Fylde players, who continue to train each day amid the uncertainty and last played on January 9.

They earned the praise of deputy boss Nick Chadwick, who told the club website: “It’s a unique situation for everyone. There’s been a break in our momentum which has been frustrating.

“We’ve spent an awful lot of time on the training pitch, so I don’t think fitness or handling the ball will be an issue.

“We’ve spoken many times about the characters and personalities that we have brought into the club and I have to say that they have been brilliant throughout.

“You can sense an excitement, an urgency, an enthusiasm for the game – that’s what I love about this group. They are all absolutely buzzing that they have a game on Tuesday.”

A morale boost for the squad has been provided by the return of manager Jim Bentley (right) to the training ground after heart surgery.

He plans to attend his first game since November this evening and Chadwick said: “When you talk about enthusiasm and ambition, the gaffer is just boiling over with it. Having gone through what he’s gone through, to be back in and around it is brilliant.”

In a statement from Chester FC, vice-chair Jim Green said: “We’ve confirmed our decision in voting for null and void and previously stated that we do not think it is right clubs are expected to keep playing and incurring costs while this is taking place. However, until the outcome is known and given the risk of potential sanctions, we intend to continue to fulfil fixtures, although our position remains under review.”

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