County fury at police decision

Apr 11 2008 by Phil Blanche, South Wales Echo

NEWPORT COUNTY have admitted their disappointment that home and away fans will be segregated at Braintree tomorrow.

The decision has been taken by Essex Police but County insist there will be no trouble at the Conference South game.

“I have discussed this with the Braintree chairman Lee Harding,” said football secretary Mike Everett on the club’s official website.

“He rang me as soon as he was notified so that the arrangements could be publicised.

“Officials at Braintree are in discussions with a view to providing an alternative to the clubhouse for our supporters.”

County supporters will be allocated the Cressing Road side of the ground only and should enter the ground by turnstiles 2 and 3.

The Cressing Road stand has a capacity for more than 800 standing.

Everett added: “While segregation is not desirable we must comply with the police’s decision.

“We have no doubt at all that the travelling ‘12th man’ will get fully behind the team and ensure that the day proceeds without incident.”

On the field, County seek to get their play-off hopes back on track following a fourth defeat in six games against Havant & Waterlooville on Wednesday.

County’s 1-0 loss left them in ninth spot, but just two points adrift of Bishop’s Stortford, who occupy the final play-off position in fifth place .

“Our minimum requirement for this season was to reach the play-offs but, to be honest, I am frustrated we’re not closer to the top two,” said County’s former Cardiff City defender Damon Searle.

“But now is the crunch time as far as the season is concerned.

“There will be twists and turns to come, but we have games in hand and are in control of our own destiny.

“The players are focused on what we have got to do.”

MERTHYR Tydfil travel to Swindon Supermarine in the BGB Southern League, Premier Division, tomorrow.

Supermarine are two places and four points ahead of the Martyrs, who will be looking to follow up last weekend’s thrilling 5-4 win over Corby Town.