EFL Statement: Bristol City vs. Cardiff City

Cardiff City’s away Sky Bet Championship fixture at Bristol City has been moved back to its original date of Saturday November 4th with a 12 noon kick-off.

The fixture had originally been selected for live TV coverage by Sky Sports on Saturday November 4th at 5.30pm but was subsequently scheduled to take place on Friday November 3rd at 7.45pm after a Police representative indicated Friday was preferable to Saturday.

Both Clubs fully supported this decision and were working with Avon and Somerset Police and the local Safety Advisory Group (SAG) on a number of additional measures as a result of there being an acceptance that this fixture was not completely without the risk of disorder.

The measures proposed by the Clubs included a reduction in the number of tickets being made available for away supporters, Cardiff City assisting with aspects of the stewarding operation and a review of how visiting fans would be transported to and from Ashton Gate to reduce the potential for disorder.

EFL Chief Executive, Shaun Harvey, said: “Despite achieving an agreement in principle, Avon and Somerset Police subsequently made a number of representations to the Safety Advisory Group and it became clear that they were not prepared to provide the police resources they felt were necessary away from Ashton Gate itself to prevent any possible disorder. In any event, Bristol City had agreed to meet the costs of the Police deployed at the stadium.

“The safety of spectators at EFL matches will always be our primary consideration when scheduling fixtures, yet we are disappointed at today’s developments and will be seeking a meeting with Avon and Somerset Police force in relation to this matter at the earliest possible opportunity, as the Clubs that fall within that area should not be disadvantaged.”