Chelsea fans are furious that the kick-off time has changed for the second time in three days for a strange reason.
Chelsea fans were left furious after the start time of their clash at Sheffield United was changed for the second time in three days.
The Blues head to Bramall Lane on Sunday 7 April in a match that was initially scheduled to kick off at 1.30pm following the latest round of fixture changes announced on Tuesday.
That would have prompted some Blues fans to start making travel and accommodation plans for the Premier League clash.
But in a movement that has left Chelsea furious fans, the start time was changed to 5:30 pm following a request from Sheffield United.
A statement on the Premier League website read: “The Premier League match between Sheffield United and Chelsea has been moved from 1.30pm to 5.30pm BST on Sunday 7 April.
“This is due to a request from the local Club. “This start time has been selected to allow for a suitable return journey for away fans.”
The Chelsea Supporters Trust reacted angrily to the news and issued a statement, pointing out the inconvenience suffered by fans who had made travel plans in advance.
“We have been informed that the change had to be made due to the Sheffield Half Marathon taking place on the same day,” the CST said.
“There has been a suggestion that decision-makers were unaware of the Half Marathon when they initially authorized a lunchtime start, despite the Sheffield Half Marathon being a long-standing event in the city centre.
“In a season where Chelsea have started only four times at the traditional 3pm and have had many inconvenient kick-off times (including the first Christmas Eve game in 28 years), this is just another kick in the teeth for loyal parties. followers who go.
“This is the last time fans are treated with disrespect, especially since this problem was totally foreseeable. Our message to all parties involved in match scheduling is clear: stop treating fans who attend matches with complete disrespect or risk stadiums becoming lifeless, soulless and passionless.” .
In a bid to refund fans who have been inconvenienced by the change, CST have asked fans to email them proof of any additional costs incurred, which they will send to both clubs.