Matlock a bit upset that we aren't going........
MATLOCK Town could be counting the cost of Sheffield United's decision not to come to the Geoquip Stadium this summer.
After a number of quite close affairs, including Matlock's now legendary 4-3 win in 2004, new Blades boss Bryan Robson and his backroom staff have arranged their pre-season schedule without the Gladiators in mind.
"We're not definitely getting Sheffield United," said Gladiators chief executive Keith Brown. "It's a big financial blow without a doubt.
"We've also had confirmation from Derby County that they are not able to send a team either. We were hoping that through (Rams press chief) Jim Fearn and (website manager) Gareth Davies, and the fact that they were not able come last year - they have not been for many years - we would have got them down."
The Blades fixture, made possible through the Brown family's close ties with ex-United manager Neil Warnock, was vital to Matlock, said Keith, adding: "It's a fabulous source of income that's very difficult to replace."
For joint managers Phil Brown and Gareth Williams, the fixture will always have a special place in their heart.
"It was mine and and Gripper's (Williams) first match in charge. They brought the first team and we managed to get a 4-3 victory.
"The players get up for it and enjoying pitting their wits against these good players.
"It's a good test for you. You get a bit of a runaround and it's good for fitness. It also atracts a lot of supporters and playing in front of a good crowd is enjoyable, and there are lots of financial rewards for the club."
