Hartlepool United's National League rivals Boreham Wood deny Southend United media access ahead of FA Cup first round tie due to coronavirus lockdown concerns

EchoSport, who cover League Two side Southend United home and away, published an article stating their press request for Saturday’s FA Cup match against Boreham Wood had been rejected by the home club.

BBC Radio, television and club streaming staff will be accommodated for the match that will be played behind closed doors this weekend.

The club has also stated that free live streams will be provided for members of the press who have been denied access to the game.

Boreham Wood issued a club statement titled ‘A Match Report Is Non-Essential’ in response to the article, which clarified the club’s position.

It read: Following the recent advice sent to us by the National League Board and the FA, and in line with all present government guidelines, due to COVID-19, the Club has had to make tough decisions in regard to who we can give entry to for Saturday’s FA Cup game against Southend United.

“Our decisions are based entirely on if somebody is deemed an essential worker or not.

"We believe a cautious, common sense approach is needed at this time and we are taking our guidance from our appropriate governing bodies; the FA and the National League, as well as our very own COVID Officer and Safety Officer.

“Unfortunately, we cannot look after away match reporters during this lockdown, as match reporters are not deemed as essential workers and can do their work from the safety of their homes via the live streams we provide.

"As such we will not be able to accommodate any non-essential media during this latest COVID-19 lockdown.”

The statement continued: “This we feel is the common-sense approach. We are all in this lockdown together and the lockdown rules of the land do supersede non-essential individuals wishes to go to a game of football, especially when they can watch the same game from the safety of their own home.”

The lockdown is initially scheduled to last four weeks from November 5 to December 2.

Boreham Wood's first scheduled match after that period will be a trip to face Hartlepool United at Victoria Park.

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