Newcastle United Women's opening league fixture of the season on Sunday has been postponed after the visitors, Halifax Women, informed the club and the FA Women's National League (FAWNL) that they would be unable to fulfil the fixture.
Becky Langley's side were due to kick off their FAWNL Northern Premier Division campaign at 2pm at Kingston Park, marking their first competitive game since turning fully professional.
The match was set to take place on the same day as the FIFA Women's World Cup final, when England will face Spain at 11am BST in Sydney, Australia.
To enable both clubs and all supporters to enjoy this momentous occasion, Newcastle United Women suggested delaying kick-off until 3pm BST and offered a complimentary private room and refreshments so that the visitors could watch the World Cup final together, however this was rejected by Halifax Women.
Newcastle United Women apologises to supporters for any disappointment this may cause.
Ticket holders should retain their tickets and the club will confirm arrangements for either a rearranged fixture or refunds at the earliest opportunity.
Photograph courtesy of Colin Lock