NANTWICH POSTPONE AWAY FIXTURE AFTER POSITIVE CORONAVIRUS TEST

NANTWICH Town’s game at Gainsborough Trinity tonight has been called off after one of the Dabbers’ squad tested positive for coronavirus.

Manager Dave Cooke was due to take his side to Lincolnshire for their Northern Premier League topflight encounter, but the decision has now been taken to postpone the fixture.

A number of Nantwich players reported feeling unwell following Saturday’s 1-0 FA Cup second qualifying round win at home against Barwell and subsequently undertook tests.

One positive result has so far been confirmed, while the club awaits other results.

A statement from Nantwich chairman Jon Gold yesterday read: “Following Saturday’s FA Cup game against Barwell on Saturday, a small number of players reported feeling unwell on Sunday and as such registered and undertook Covid-19 tests, as a matter of urgency and precaution.

“This has so far resulted in one positive test and we await results on the rest of the squad. However, as a matter of protocol and safety and in consultation with the league and Public Health England, tomorrow’s away game at Gainsborough has been postponed and we will await the outcome of the remaining tests and seek further guidance once these are known, before determining if and when future games can be played. “We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause, especially to our hosts at Gainsborough, but I am sure that you will appreciate that since the return of football, the health and safety of all of our players, volunteers, employees and supporters, is of the utmost importance.

“I am sure that you will join us in wishing everyone affected by this, a speedy and healthy recovery.” Nantwich’s victory at the weekend has seen them handed an away trip to Marine in the third qualifying round of the FA Cup. The tie is scheduled for next Tuesday. Meanwhile, Nantwich Town have completed the signing of striker Scott Mcgowan from 1874 Northwich.

Mcgowan, aged 33, scored a club record 128 goals in 189 appearances for Northwich - and Dabbers boss Cooke was delighted to seal the move.

He told the club’s website: “I’ve finally got my man! Scott has been a target for the last three years now, so I am delighted to get him signed at last.

“I believe this signing now completes the squad, he is a great goal scorer and with a fantastic record at 1874 Northwich and with Congleton Town before that. “We can’t wait to get him going.” Mcgowan says the opportunity to step up from the North West Counties League was one he couldn’t refuse.

“Firstly, I want to thank Dave for the opportunity, it’s a chance to test myself at a higher level and a challenge I can’t wait to start,” he told the Dabbers’ website. “Nantwich has a great set up and a great set of lads and I can’t wait to play my first game and get to know my new team-mates.”

“I want to thank everyone at ’74, I’ve had a great time whilst at the club and have some wonderful memories during my time.

“I’ve had a great relationship with the fans and the committee at the club, I wish them all the very best for the future.”