Border rules scupper Lions

Just the day after Tony Vance, the Guernsey FC boss, spoke of his fear for his side being able to start their Isthmian South-Central Division campaign, confirmation arrived that the Skipton Cup summer tournament between Guernsey FC and FC Isle of Man had been postponed until 2022 due to the ongoing border restrictions announced by both islands’ governments.

The latest developments to restrict free travel to those who have been double vaccinated only has seen the demise of the 2021 plans. The majority of each island’s players will not have had their double vaccinations in time.

Nic Legg, communications director at Guernsey FC, said it would be a big disappointment to the squad who have been preparing for a few weeks.

‘Plans were already well under way, with tickets sold and planes chartered. We had high hopes for two keenly-fought matches, and couldn’t wait to travel to the Isle of Man for the first match on 17 July, but it’s not to be.

‘The safety of our players and fans is paramount to us, and we have no option but to follow the official guidelines. We will be in touch with those who have already booked tickets shortly.’

Jim Coupe of Skipton International said the bank was always aware that the pandemic might have an impact. ‘We are very proud sponsors of the Skipton Cup and look forward to coming back bigger and better in 2022.’