Harps boss McHugh slams Derry City as friendly postponed with two days' notice
Finn Harps manager Kevin McHugh shared his disappointment that their pre-season friendly with Derry City was postponed at such short notice
Finn Harps boss Kevin McHugh has been left frustrated after their second pre-season friendly has been cancelled just two days in advance at the request of Derry City.
The Harps were due to play the Candystripes at 5pm on Saturday at Finn Park as preparation for the new season, but the Derry side has requested that the game be postponed at short notice.
The Harps played their first pre-season match against Sligo Rovers on Tuesday at Finn Park, winning 1-0 and were preparing for another North West Derby against Derry in Ballybofey just four days later.
Kevin McHugh told club media of his frustration that the game would not go ahead: "From a football point of view it’s far from ideal preparation.
“We had a lot of work and planning built around this fixture. The game was requested by Derry and we accommodated changes at their end, so to have it cancelled with two days' notice is extremely disappointing.
“At this level you would expect a club with Derry’s resources and academy to be able to fulfil a friendly. It’s frustrating for us, for the players, and for our supporters who were looking forward to the match.”
Finn Harps’ next preseason game is scheduled for January 31, again taking on Sligo Rovers, this time at the Showgrounds.