Liverpool FC Women's boss Matt Beard has slammed BBC Sport for what he calls a 'disrespectful' and 'frustrating' television scheduling decision that he believes undermines the Women's Super League.
The Reds' pivotal clash against title-chasing Chelsea has been moved to a Monday night with an 19:15 GMT kick-off, a slot Beard argues shows a lack of consideration for the athletes and supporters.
'A Disgrace' for Players and Travelling Fans
Beard didn't hold back in his criticism, highlighting the practical implications of the late fixture. 'It's a disgrace for the players, but also for the fans that want to travel and watch the game,' he stated.
He pointed out the obvious logistical nightmare, adding: 'It's on a Monday night, live on TV, so it is going to be a late finish for anyone coming to the game. For us to have to travel back from London, it is not ideal.'
Contrast in Treatment Exposed
The manager drew a sharp contrast with the men's game, questioning whether such a scheduling decision would ever be made for a high-profile Premier League match. His comments underscore a perceived disparity in how broadcasters treat the two leagues.
'It is a little bit disrespectful to be honest, for us and for Chelsea, that they have chosen to put this game on a Monday night,' Beard emphasised, voicing a frustration felt by many in the women's game.
More Than Just an Inconvenience
This isn't just about a late night. Beard explained the knock-on effect on his team's preparation and recovery, disrupting their training schedule in the lead-up to another important fixture. It forces a condensed recovery period, potentially impacting player performance and welfare.
The rescheduled match will now be broadcast on BBC Two, but for Beard, the platform doesn't make up for the poor timing. His outburst is a significant challenge to the BBC, a primary broadcaster for the WSL, to practice what it preaches regarding the promotion of women's sport.
