JOINT-boss John Snape reckons the postponement of Worcester City’s derby with Bromsgrove Sporting could prove a blessing in disguise.

Snape shared in the frustration of his players and fans of both clubs over the call off at 11am on New Year’s Day due to a waterlogged pitch.

Anticipation had been building towards fever pitch after an enthralling Boxing Day clash which saw Sporting fight back to draw 3-3 after City had led by three in front of 1,672 fans.

But while Snape took no joy from kicking his heels, he admitted the decision could prove beneficial in the long term.

“We wanted to play,” said Snape. “It was a disappointment that we didn’t but when I got to the ground the goal mouths were very heavy which made it touch and go.

“Any kind of downpour during the game would have led to problems. The rest of the pitch seemed okay but it was the referee’s call and he had to think of the safety of the players.

“It would have been a cracking derby just like Boxing Day and the pitch might have led to a few mistakes which would have added even more spice to it.

“The surface is important to both clubs, though, as is fitting in all of the games in a timely manner and even more so for Bromsgrove on the back of their run in the FA Vase. They have a tough trip at the weekend without playing any football since Boxing Day.”

The call meant there was no pressure to play injured City duo Alex Tomkinson and George Forsyth, both of whom could feature in tomorrow’s Midland League Premier Division trip to Heanor Town (3pm).

Winger Tomkinson has been nursing a hamstring complaint, while Forsyth has received the all clear from a specialist to play with a protective cast over a broken wrist.

“From our point of view, it gave Alex more time to make sure he got over his problem and George the chance to train properly with us after having his wrist assessed,” said Snape.

“The specialist has given him the all clear to see how it goes over the next couple of weeks. We are going to be sensible and ensure George’s safety comes first but he is keen and eager to get back.

“Everything was okay in training and to be honest, a sore knee picked up from training on 3G gave him more grief than his arm. Hopefully they will both be okay for Saturday.”