Gornal Athletic Football Club can confirm that our opening home fixture of the 2026/27 season against Boldmere Rangers will be played behind closed doors.

This follows a sanction imposed by the Football Association relating to incidents that occurred during last season’s Play-Off Final.

We fully appreciate the disappointment and frustration this will cause our players, volunteers, sponsors and, most importantly, our loyal supporters, who have shown incredible backing to the club.

While we are naturally disappointed that our first home fixture cannot be shared with our supporters, we will fully comply with the sanction and will continue working hard to ensure everyone can return to Garden Walk Stadium for our following home fixtures.

This sanction serves as an important reminder that everyone attending football matches has a responsibility to behave in a manner that reflects positively on our club. We ask all supporters to familiarise themselves with and adhere to the FA’s Supporters’ Code of Conduct at all times. The vast majority of our supporters represent Gornal Athletic with pride and respect, and we thank them for their continued backing.

The club wishes to make it absolutely clear that any behaviour which breaches the FA’s regulations or brings the club into disrepute will not be tolerated. We are committed to providing a safe, welcoming and enjoyable matchday environment for everyone, and will take appropriate action where necessary.

We thank all of our supporters for their understanding, patience and continued support during this time. Your backing means everything to everyone at the club, and we look forward to welcoming you back at Garden Walk Stadium for our next home fixture.