Featherstone Rovers tell fans 'stay at home' for Batley Bulldogs Challenge Cup tie

A group of fans gathered at a vantage point outside the ground during last week's behind-closed-doors Betfred Challenge Cup tie against Bradford Bulls, but were eventually moved on.

Rovers are at home again on Saturday in a second round tie against Batley Bulldogs and face the same opponents at Millennium Stadium, Post Office Road, when the Betfred Championship begins next weekend.

Games until mid-May will be played without crowds, but streamed online and last week's tie was covered on the BBC Sport website.

In a statement, Rovers urged fans to stay away until the turnstiles reopen.

"Not only do these actions pose the risk of personal injury to any offender, the club have been in discussions with the police and council on how these breaches seriously break Covid guidelines and both the offenders and the club could be liable for serious financial penalties," the statement said.

"Featherstone Rovers are taking the responsibility in this matter extremely seriously.

"Security patrols will be situated outside the Millennium Stadium for tomorrow’s cup tie against Batley Bulldogs.

"The club will also be supported by members of the police to ensure that there are zero breaches of Covid rules or public order.

"In the event of any of our supporters being identified in making such a breach, the club will have no alternative but to take appropriate action against any offenders.

"Supporters can watch tomorrow’s fixture live and free on The Sportsman’s website, YouTube and Facebook accounts.

"The club encourages all supporters to support the team from the comfort of their homes as Rovers aim to go one match closer to Wembley."

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