Bradford City v Stevenage - Bantams frustrated by fixture confusion

The Mariners’ game at Cheltenham Town this afternoon was postponed when a member of their squad tested positive for covid-19, requiring other players and staff to self-isolate. The visit of Bradford in seven days has also been postponed.

And yesterday afternoon Stevenage confirmed one of their players reported mild symptoms and was self-isolating, causing them to cancel their travel plans until all staff are tested. The results are expected this morning.

“What we are doing now – only testing folk that have symptoms and allowing each club to decide whether or not it tests further – is going to result in mass infections all at once and games cancelled as a result,” said Stevenage chairman Phil Wallace.

Bradford have criticised Stevenage after going to bed not knowing if Saturday’s League Two home game will go ahead.

“We are hugely disappointed by the manner in which Stevenage and Grimsby Town have chosen to outline their positions this evening, without consulting us,” said City’s director of communications and commercial, Ryan Sparks.

“As things stand – less than 24 hours before kick-off – we are still awaiting clarification as to whether or not tomorrow’s fixture can go ahead as planned. This, in itself, is very frustrating.”

Meanwhile, striker Gareth Evans admitted rejoining the Bantams took him by surprise.

The 32-year-old had two seasons at Valley Parade from 2009 to 2011, then 18 months at Rotherham United. He has spent the last five years with Portsmouth, making more than 200 appearances.

“I never thought I would see the day, but I am over the moon to be here and looking forward to getting to know the lads and playing at this club again,” he said.

“My time at Portsmouth was up a little bit and as soon as I knew Bradford City and Stuart McCall (his manager last time) were interested I was excited.”

Last six games: Bradford City DLDDWL; Stevenage WWDDLL.

Referee: O Yates (Staffordshire).

Last time: Bradford City 3 Stevenage 1, February 11, 2020, League Two.

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