Shipston boss Hedderman left bewildered by 'idiotic' early kick-off

SHIPSTON Excelsior manager Steve Hedderman expressed his disappointment at the “idiotic” kick-off time for their Midland League Division Three clash at Coventrians on Tuesday night.

Hedderman’s side faced a 60-mile round trip to Coventry, with many of his players unable to arrive at the ground in Keresley for the early 6pm kick-off.

It forced the Shipston boss into making six changes for the game, with the players who could make it turning up at the ground just five minutes before kick-off.

“It was a bit of a car crash,” said Hedderman.

“We were supposed to get from Shipston to Coventry for a 6pm kick-off.

“It was idiotic for the league to do that and I don’t think we got there until 5.55pm.

“I’m bewildered by it all. There’s no thought for people travelling from work and it’s especially disappointing seeing as we have a free Saturday this weekend.

“I just hope we get a 6pm kick-off when we play Coventrians at home later in the season.”

Coventrians deservedly led 2-0 at the break, scoring a third in the second half before new boy Josh Keyte scored on his debut late on.

Hedderman added: “It was 2-0 at half-time, but in all honesty it could have been four or five. It was rabbits in the headlights stuff. We were wasteful and they took their chances.

“However, I’m proud of my lads who made the effort and have given their all in two tough away games so far.”