Hibs' matches against Ross County and Livingston called off

Hibs say they wouldn’t be able to field a team for either of the matches as a "significant number" of players and staff have Covid-19.

Author: Liam RossPublished 2nd Nov 2021

Hibernian's upcoming matches against Ross County and Livingston have been postponed after more Covid-19 cases were identified at the Easter Road club.

They say they wouldn’t be able to field a team for either of the matches as a "significant number" of players and staff have the virus.

Hibs away match with the Staggies was initially due to go ahead on Saturday, but was rescheduled for tomorrow night after two players tested positive for coronavirus and further close contacts were identified.

But as the situation has not improved, the SPFL have agreed to call off the game again and also postpone Hibs' clash with Livi.

"No other alternative"

Hibs say they're working with NHS Lothian to reduce the spread of Covid.

A statement said: "Our cinch Premiership games against Ross County and Livingston have been postponed following further positive Covid tests.

"The games, which were due to take place on Wednesday 3 November and Saturday 6 November respectively, have now been postponed following discussions with the SPFL, NHS Lothian, and the clubs.

"This decision was made after a significant number of first team players, staff, and development squad players tested positive over the last few days.

"By following all the guidelines, we wouldn’t be able to field a team for either game, which has led us to no other alternative than to postpone the fixtures.

"The individuals will not be named due to medical confidentiality and those affected will now self-isolate in-line with the protocol.

"We are in constant discussions with NHS Lothian to reduce the spread of Covid and HTC has subsequently been closed for a deep clean. We have also undergone an internal investigation regarding the outbreak and are confident in our processes.

"We will continue to take every precaution necessary as the safety of our players and staff is of absolute importance.

"We would also like to apologise to our supporters who have made plans to attend the re-arranged fixture at Ross County.

"We made our thoughts incredibly clear to the SPFL before the fixture was re-arranged, and it took them until today, after more positive tests were recorded and several meetings, to make the right decision, which we thank them for.

"We will put out further details regarding away tickets purchased for both Ross County and Livingston in due course.

"We’d like to thank all our supporters for their understanding."

Ross County also say an update regarding ticketing will be made in due course.

A statement said: "We were informed by the SPFL that tomorrow night’s match against Hibernian has been postponed.

"This is due to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak within Hibernian FC.

"We will provide an update in regards to ticketing, etc within the next 24 hours.

Livingston say they wish a "speedy recovery" to those affected by the virus at Hibs

"Livingston FC is disappointed to announce that Saturday’s scheduled cinch Premiership clash with Hibernian has been postponed.

"As has been documented this week, the Edinburgh side have been affected with a number of positive COVID-19 cases and, as such, have contacted the SPFL to make them aware that they don’t have the relevant player quota to fulfil Saturday’s fixture and subsequently, the game has now been postponed.

"Of course, we wish those affected a speedy recovery from the virus.

"As yet, no new date for the game has been confirmed but we’ll let you know as soon as we have official word from the SPFL.

"For anyone who has purchased a match ticket for this game, please keep a hold of this for the time being and we’ll have a further announcement with ticket details once the new date has been announced.

"Likewise, for our hospitality guests, we’ll be in touch with you to discuss the available options too."

An SPFL spokesman said: "After reviewing the information provided by Hibernian, their cinch Premiership matches against Ross County and Livingston this week have been postponed.

"New dates for both games will be announced as soon as possible."

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