Spenny chief wants a classic

By David Richardson

CHIEF executive Brad Groves wants Spennymoor Town’s clash with rivals Darlington to be a memorable occasion for Non- League football.

The north east derby takes place today at Brewery Field after the fixture turned sour last year.

Both clubs are mid-table in National League North but know a victory over their neighbours can kick start their season.

Spenny chief Groves hopes it can be an historic fixture.

“I think it’s important to stress that this fixture should be a memorable day for football fans in the north east,” he said.“Lessons have been learned from Darlington supporters’ previous visit to The Brewery Field in 2020. I think it’s clear that some honest mistakes were made from Spennymoor Town’s side in the build-up to the game.

“The decision not to make it an all-ticket occasion was a mistake and played a part in a higher number of Darlington fans in the segregated area of the ground than was anticipated.

“We’ve obviously implemented far stricter ground entry requirements for this year’s fixture and limited the number of tickets available in both home and away ends.

“The previous pricing structure which categorised games into A and B fixtures was, in hindsight, the wrong call, which has now been amended under the Affordable Football For All strategy and we have made this season’s tickets cheaper for non-season ticket holders and Darlington supporters.

“We now offer the best match day package in Non- League football and can provide travelling Darlington supporters with unrivalled prices and facilities in the away end.

“There was also a small contingent of Darlington supporters last time who let their club down with their behaviour. Having worked with Darlington, we do not expect those people to be able to attend this season’s fixture.

“We have worked hard to ensure that all of this contributes to a safe and enjoyable visit for Darlington supporters and a memorable occasion on the pitch for both sets of fans to enjoy.”