St Andrews United forced to play the waiting game

United are, at the time of writing, still scheduled to host Ormiston in the East of Scotland League’s opening day on Saturday.

However, in midweek Scottish Government first minister Nicola Sturgeon announced a raft of new restrictions aimed at driving back down rising coronavirus levels.

Whilst the bulk of those affect the hospitality trade, and in particular five health board regions which don’t include Fife, sport has also taken a hit.

Included in the restrictions is the suspension of contact sports for all people aged 18 and over, with the exemption of professional sports’

The sixth-tier EoS League has been making its case to be classified as professional, saying this: “The East of Scotland League observed the new government regulations restricting outdoor adult contact sport in five health board areas for 16 days, with exceptions for professional sport.

“Our league is due to start this weekend after seven months of shutdown following great efforts and much sacrifice by our clubs, officials and players.

“As of October 7, we have not received any guidance or instruction from the Scottish FA regarding any alterations in status for our clubs within these five areas.

“We understand clubs from these five areas in other semi-professional leagues such as SPFL1, SPFL2, Highland and Lowland are expecting to proceed this weekend.

“As our league contains 20 full SFA member clubs, and more professional players than the Highland League and Lowland League combined, we anticipate such definition of professional will include ourselves.”

Despite Fife not being included in one of the affected health board areas, it’s possible the entire fixture card will be postponed.

Saints boss Charlie King admits its a frustrating time and just wants to see his side on the field again.

He said: “Let’s be honest, getting back playing is something we’re all needing.

“We came back earlier. We were in on July 13 and it’s been a long slog. It was only once a week for the first few weeks but then we went back into a lockdown again where it was suspended, then back to it.

“We need that competitive edge back, so we’re looking forward to it.

“We’re desperate to get going but are going to have to wait and see now, I suppose.”

Saints will go into tomorrow’s game as favourites, but King is not taking Ormiston lightly.

He added: “Since I’ve been at St Andrews, on the occasions we’ve played them, it’s never been easy.

“They always seem to find themselves near the bottom, but that goes out the window for me. We’re itching to get going and I’m hoping to see the boys come to life on Saturday.”