RECLASSIFY OUR ‘ELITE' STATUS FOR FANS' SAKE

SLOUGH TOWN joint-boss Neil Baker says the focus about the ‘elite’ player tag is clouding the argument about fans being locked out of National League grounds.

- Matt Badcock

The Rebels competed in the National League South play-offs behind closed doors after Steps 1 and 2 were classified as ‘elite’ in accordance with the government’s return to sport guidance. The key factor was that the clubs’ players derived a living from playing.

But having entered that framework, the clubs are now unable to allow fans in to watch their games.

Baker, boss alongside Jon Underwood, says the fact Slough ground sharers Chalvey Sports and Langley can play in front of spectators shows there is no logic in the rules.

“My general opinion is that I want football to be played and played in front of fans,” Baker said. “I don’t believe the government should be bailing out football clubs to pay players to play a league season that might get cut short.