Peterborough United have expressed frustration over the decision to schedule their FA Cup third-round tie against Everton on a midweek evening.
The League One side had been eagerly anticipating the match after drawing Premier League club Everton.
The fixture offered an exciting away day for fans, additional revenue, and the unique chance to play at Goodison Park during its final season before Everton’s move to Bramley-Moore Dock.
However, the match is set to take place on Thursday, 9 January 2025, rather than a weekend.
With Everton’s Merseyside rivals Liverpool scheduled to face Accrington Stanley on Saturday, 11 January, Peterborough hoped their game would not clash with Liverpool’s fixture.
They now feel the decision will negatively impact their finances and inconvenience traveling fans.
Posh chief executive Dawn Gore voiced the club’s disappointment, stating:
“Like our supporters, we were thrilled about the prospect of traveling to Goodison Park after Monday night’s draw.
Within hours, we received numerous inquiries about ticketing.
“To learn the game has been scheduled for a Thursday night is deeply disappointing.
While we acknowledge the logistical challenges, we believe the supporters’ needs were not adequately considered.
“We’ve made our concerns known to the decision-makers and want our supporters to know we share their frustration.
From a financial perspective, this decision means the club will lose out on revenue that would have been incredibly beneficial for a Sky Bet League One team.”
The FA Cup clash will still hold prestige as it is set to be broadcast on BBC iPlayer.
However, Peterborough United remain disheartened by the scheduling, which they feel diminishes the excitement for their fans and hinders their ability to maximize earnings from what could have been a lucrative tie.
