Update: Cove Rangers v Falkirk to go ahead as scheduled as SPFL reject Bairns appeal

A number for Falkirk players will go in to the match having not played or participated in training for ten days, something the Bairns management and higher ups are understandably concerned about

After forfeiting their final two Premier Sports Cup games against Edinburgh City and Ayr United last week this weekend’s League 1 opener was in doubt.

However, in a statement released yesterday (Wednesday), Falkirk confirmed all players who had been isolating would be available in time for the game but were concerned about the lack of preparation they would have.

The club therefor asked that the match be postponed but the governing body denied their request and have not changed their mind despite the Bairns appeals.

Another statement updating fans, released last night (Thursday), said: “ The Club have received notice from the SPFL Board this evening that our request for the postponement of Saturday’s fixture against Cove Rangers has been rejected.

"We fundamentally disagree with the decision of the SPFL Board which does not address concerns raised by our Club, medical professionals and PFA Scotland about the negative physical and mental health impact this could have on our players. The Club has yet to receive any explanation or rationale from the SPFL Board or its staff other than “SPFL rules state that clubs must fulfil scheduled fixtures”.

"The Club put forward a measured and logical case to the SPFL and asked them to provide us with a summary of the medical advice they considered when reaching their decision. No such advice has been provided which leads us to the inescapable conclusion this decision was based on the rule book rather than medical evidence, impact on player welfare or common sense.

"We believe this sets a dangerous precedent for clubs, and more importantly player welfare across Scotland. A message has gone out loud and clear from the SPFL – regardless of player welfare concerns, all clubs will be forced to fulfil their fixtures or face disciplinary action.

"Our fixture with Cove Rangers will go ahead as scheduled at 3pm on Saturday but to be clear we are playing this fixture under duress and the threat of disciplinary action.”