Wellington Association Football Club is in a strong financial position despite losing income from three postponed home games in recent weeks. The club, which was scheduled to play against Street last weekend, had to cancel the match due to poor pitch conditions. Heavy rainfall the day before left the field unsafe, forcing an early decision to call off the game.
Club chairman Mike Hall explained the reasoning behind the decision. “We were concerned about player safety. The pitch was too wet and would not take a stud. It would have been too slippery. Player safety is our top priority, and we cannot take that kind of risk,” he said.
The match was called off early Saturday morning following a pitch inspection. Hall noted that the middle of the field was the most affected area and that further rain was expected later in the day. “We had to make a decision then and there. Delaying the call-off until midday would not have been fair to anyone. No matter what decision is made, it is never easy,” he added.
Financial Stability Despite Challenges
While postponed home matches mean lost revenue, Wellington AFC remains financially stable. The club recently invested in new floodlights and a new stand, but Hall reassured fans that their finances remain healthy.
“Although home games bring in much-needed income, we are doing well financially. Despite our recent expenses, we are in a very healthy state,” Hall said.
The club’s financial strength is crucial as it continues to navigate a difficult season. Although Wellington climbed to an impressive sixth position earlier in the season, their lack of games has caused them to drop to 16th in the table. However, they still have matches in hand and could move back up to mid-table with good results in the coming weeks.
Upcoming Fixtures and Tough Opposition
As it turned out, no rain fell on the Saturday before the scheduled kick-off. However, the club had to make their decision in advance, not knowing how conditions would change.
Now, Wellington is looking forward to their next home game on Saturday, March 1, when they face Clevedon Town at 3 p.m. Clevedon is having a strong season and is considered a top contender for promotion to the Southern League. If they finish in the top two of the Jewson League, they will secure a return to the higher division.
The challenges do not end there for Wellington. On Wednesday, March 5, they will play another tough home match against title-chasing Portishead Town. This will be a crucial test for the squad as they try to regain their form after a long break from competition.
Following these home fixtures, Wellington will hit the road. They play away against Brislington on Saturday and then travel midweek to face Oldland Abbotonians. With so many postponed matches, the team will have to adapt quickly to a busy schedule.
Can Wellington Regain Their Best Form?
Having not played a match in five weeks, Wellington fans are eager to see how their team performs against Clevedon. Earlier this season, Wellington enjoyed a fantastic run of eight straight wins, including two victories in cup competitions. However, manager Richard Cherry has struggled to field a consistent starting eleven due to various challenges, including injuries and absences. The lack of recent matches has not helped in building team cohesion.
“Not playing regularly makes it harder to settle into a rhythm. We need to get back on track quickly,” Hall admitted.
Reserves Also Affected by Postponements
Wellington Reserves have also faced disruption due to postponed matches. They have not played in three weeks but are set to return to action on Saturday, March 1. They will play away against Combe St Nicholas in the Somerset Senior Cup, with kick-off scheduled for 2 p.m.
Combe St Nicholas competes in the second division of the Uhlsport Somerset County League. They are currently near the top of the table and are the highest-scoring team in their division. Wellington’s reserves will face a tough challenge against a strong attacking side.
Despite a slow start to the season, Wellington Reserves have improved under player-manager Mark Owen. Last season, he guided the team to promotion from the first division, and this year, they have moved into a solid mid-table position.
Looking Ahead
Wellington AFC’s upcoming fixtures will be crucial in determining their standing for the rest of the season. With matches in hand, they have a chance to climb back up the table. However, the long gap without games will test their fitness and match sharpness.
The first team and reserves will need to make the most of their upcoming matches. Fans will be hoping to see Wellington regain the form that saw them go on an impressive winning streak earlier in the season.
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