The highly anticipated Sheffield derby between Sheffield United vs Sheffield Wednesday has been rescheduled, causing mixed reactions among fans, particularly due to its clash with Remembrance Sunday. Originally slated for the afternoon of Saturday, November 9, the match has been moved to Sunday, November 10, which coincides with the nation’s Remembrance Day commemorations.
This decision has drawn criticism from some fans, especially veterans like Geoff Dakin, a long-term Sheffield United season ticket holder, who said his seat at Bramall Lane would “probably be empty” on such an important day of reflection and respect for the armed forces. Despite the scheduling conflict, both clubs have expressed their commitment to honoring the day, announcing plans for a wreath-laying ceremony before kick-off.
Rescheduling the Sheffield Derby
The decision to move the Sheffield United vs. Sheffield Wednesday match from its original Saturday slot to Remembrance Sunday has sparked debate among the football community. The fixture, a crucial event in the season for both teams, is always a highlight for the city of Sheffield. However, this year, the move to Sunday, a day traditionally reserved for national reflection on the sacrifices made by military personnel, has left many supporters concerned about the timing.
The fixture adjustment came as part of broader scheduling changes that often occur in modern football due to broadcasting commitments, policing needs, or other logistical considerations. However, for many fans, particularly those with personal ties to Remembrance Sunday, this change felt insensitive. One of those most affected is Geoff Dakin, a veteran and lifelong Sheffield United supporter, who has attended games at Bramall Lane for years but now faces a dilemma due to the match’s new timing.
Dakin, like many other veterans and supporters, expressed his discomfort with the decision, emphasizing the significance of the day. “I’ve been a season ticket holder for many years, but Remembrance Sunday is different. It’s a day to pay respect to those who gave their lives for our freedom, and my seat will probably be empty this time around.”
Football and Remembrance: Striking the Right Balance
In the lead-up to the rescheduled derby, Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday have acknowledged the concerns raised by fans like Dakin. Both clubs are keenly aware of the cultural and emotional significance of Remembrance Sunday and have emphasized their desire to ensure that the match pays proper tribute to the armed forces.
A joint statement from the clubs emphasized their commitment to working together on initiatives to honor the day. “We understand the value of Remembrance Sunday to our community, and we are making plans to ensure the occasion is marked with respect and dignity. A wreath-laying ceremony will take place prior to kick-off, and we invite all fans to join us in remembering those who sacrificed so much.”
The wreath-laying ceremony, planned for just before the start of the match, will see representatives from both clubs, including players and coaching staff, participate in a solemn tribute. However, for some supporters, these measures do not fully alleviate the discomfort of having a major sporting event coincide with such a solemn occasion.
Fan Reactions amid the Rescheduled
For Geoff Dakin and others like him, the decision to stay away from the derby is not an easy one. “It’s a difficult situation because I love Sheffield United, and the derby is one of the most important games of the year. But on Remembrance Sunday, my priority is to honor the men and women who have served, not to watch football.”
Social media has seen a mixed response, with some fans expressing solidarity with veterans and others arguing that football, as a part of British culture, can also serve as a platform for remembrance. “We can respect the fallen and still support our team,” one fan wrote on Twitter. “Football has long been a part of Remembrance Sunday. We just need to make sure we show our respect before the game.”
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