TWO BORDER League matches scheduled for the winter break have been postponed due to Covid concerns leaving a potential fixture backlog in the new-year.

Seven clubs are competing in this year’s tournament with Pool ‘A’ comprising of Hawick, Jed-Forest, Gala and Peebles and Pool B comprising of Selkirk, Melrose and Kelso.

So far only two games have taken place. Gala beat Peebles 24-12 at Netherdale whilst Kelso beat Melrose 18-13 in a match that also counted for National League One points.

The match between Jed-Forest and Gala which was due take place last night (Thursday 16 December 2021) was cancelled and Jed issued a statement on the club website which read: “In light of the new government guidelines announced yesterday with regards to COVID and in particular the slowing down of the spread of the new variant Omicron, Jed-Forest RFC have taken the decision to postpone our border league match with Gala.

“It would be inappropriate for us to continue to play this game under the circumstances and with the close proximity of Christmas help to protect the health and well-being of players, staff and supporters of both teams. The match will be rescheduled in the new year.”

Selkirk’s game against Kelso which was scheduled to take place on Saturday 18 December at Philiphaugh was also postponed.

Selkirk chairman Dennis Henderson said: “As a club we have a duty of responsibility to our players, supporters and their families, to try and limit social contact in line with today’s announcement.

“With Christmas just over a week away, the club feels this is the correct decision, and the fixture will now be rescheduled to a later date in the New Year.”

Scheduled dates for the remaining games are as follows.

Friday 4 February 2022 - Melrose v Selkirk (7.30pm)

Friday 4 February 2022 - Peebles v Hawick (7.30pm)

Friday 11 March 2022 Hawick v Jedforest (7.30pm)

Saturday 19 March Hawick v Gala (3pm)

Jedforest v Peebles TBC