Bulls Back In Action Next Month

Jersey Bulls, who haven't played a match since March because of coronavirus, have announced their first opponent ahead of the new season.

Gary Freeman's side will take on Risborough Rangers at Springfield Stadium on Saturday 29 August.

Like the Bulls, Risborough were enjoying an unbeaten season before the coronavirus pandemic called action to a halt in early March.

The last Bulls match at Springfield Stadium was a 2-0 victory over British Airways FC on 7 March.

"The game is hugely exciting as it’s not only our first confirmed pre-season fixture but it is against another unbeaten side from our level.

"‘It is a great test in Gary’s preparations ahead of the new season. Everyone associated with the club is delighted and super excited with the imminent return of competitive football." - Ian Horswell, Director.

Players returned to training at the Airport pitch earlier this week in preparation for the new campaign, which is due to start on 5 September.

We were delighted to return to training this evening. Hear Gary’s thoughts after the first session back. https://t.co/vgJQ1ccG0A

— JerseyBullsFC (@jersey_bulls) July 28, 2020

The move to Level one of the coronavirus exit strategy is due to lead to contact sport being allowed to resume. That's set to come into force next week.

Elsewhere, 12 Jersey football clubs have been awarded an equal split of £6,000 (£500 each) to improve its ground hygiene measures ahead of the new season.

That could involve installing hand sanitising stations and contactless payment systems, water, gas and ventilation inspections, and maintenance work.

"It’s really pleasing to see so many of our affiliated clubs tapping into these grants from the Football Foundation

"As local players and officials prepare for the return of matches, this money will be much appreciated by clubs as they work to ensure their clubhouses and changing rooms comply with Covid-19 guidelines.

"There’s lots for them to consider, for example putting up new physical distancing signage, perhaps introducing contactless payment in their club bars, or bringing in cleaners to ensure changing areas meet the guidelines. This funding will really help as we get ready to get back out on the pitch." - Charlie Tostevin, Jersey FA Facilities Committee Chair.

The 12 successful beneficiaries are: 

• St Peter
• Sporting Academics
• St Ouen
• Trinity
• Rozel Rovers
• St Brelade
• St Paul’s
• JTC Jersey Wanderers
• St Lawrence
• St Clement
• Grouville
• St John

It's also been confirmed that two clubs will be promoted and relegated from each Jersey FA league from next season.

Clubs voted in favour of the proposed rule changes at this week's JFA AGM.

The women's league will be settled by a play-off if the top two finish level on points.