Portsmouth's Swindon ticket-holders told they'll stay top of queue when Tier 3 restrictions are lifted

The government announced on Thursday that Portsmouth – along with Gosport and Havant – will enter Tier 3 restrictions in the bid to tackle coronavirus.

That’s after a rise in Covid cases in the area, with the latest restrictions coming into force from 12.01am on Saturday morning.

No spectators are allowed to attend sporting events as a result of the new measures.

SEE ALSO: Catlin’s verdict on what tier 3 restrictions means to ambitions of Pompey

The Blues had welcomed back 2,000 fans for their past two home games – the permitted number for those clubs operating under Tier 2 restrictions.

But the latest government announcement means Pompey home matches will return to behind closed doors until the latest national review – which is expected on December 30.

That will come as a blow to those flexi-season ticket-holders who have been waiting patiently to see their team in action again.

Groups A and H, plus members in group 5, had been informed that they could purchase tickets for the Robins fixture.

However, they’ve since been informed they will retain their place at the top of the queue for when fans are allowed back inside Fratton Park.

A club statement read: ‘The government have announced that Portsmouth is among the regions that will move into ‘Tier 3’ from 12.01am on Saturday, December 19.

‘This means that Fratton Park will no longer be able to admit 2,000 supporters for home matches.

‘The Boxing Day fixture against Swindon will now, unfortunately, take place behind closed doors and tickets will not go on sale as previously advertised.

‘Groups that were chosen for this game – flexi-season ticket groups ‘A’ and ‘H’, and members group ‘5’ – will be able to purchase tickets for the next game that fans are allowed to attend.

‘We will advise supporters when more information becomes available and advise everyone to follow the current government guidelines.

‘Thank you for your continued patience and support.’

The Blues’ next game is on Friday at League One leaders Hull (5.30pm).

Next is the Swindon game at Fratton Park (December 26), before Pompey embark on five consecutive away matches – Bristol Rovers (Dec 29), Accrington (January 2), Bristol City (Jan 10), Peterborough (Jan 12) and Fleetwood (Jan 16).

Their next home fixture is the re-arranged game against AFC Wimbledon on Tuesday, January 19.

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