Early start for Diamonds' and Poppies' derby-day showdown

The Easter Monday derby between AFC Rushden & Diamonds and Kettering Town at Hayden Road will kick-off at the earlier time of 1pm.
By Jon Dunham
Published 13th Mar 2019, 09:11 BST
Updated 13th Mar 2019, 09:16 BST
Kettering Town and AFC Rushden & Diamonds met in the first derby of the season on New Year's Day at Latimer Park. Picture by Peter ShortKettering Town and AFC Rushden & Diamonds met in the first derby of the season on New Year's Day at Latimer Park. Picture by Peter Short
Kettering Town and AFC Rushden & Diamonds met in the first derby of the season on New Year's Day at Latimer Park. Picture by Peter Short

The second derby-day of the season had been due to start at 3pm but Diamonds have now confirmed the kick-off time has now been brought forward on the advice of Northamptonshire Police.

The clash, which is the penultimate game of the regular season for both clubs as well as being Diamonds’ final home match of the campaign, is expected to attract a big attendance.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

There could be plenty riding on the game with the Poppies currently chasing the Evo-Stik League South Premier Division Central title and Diamonds being in contention for a play-off place.

Most Popular

However, Diamonds have also confirmed that the game will not be all-ticket and that the usual matchday admission prices will apply for both home and away supporters while further details about the game will be confirmed in “due course”.

The first clash between the two this season attracted a season-high attendance of 2,147 to Latimer Park on New Year’s Day as the Poppies claimed a dramatic 2-1 victory thanks to Rhys Hoenes’ stoppage-time header.