Cold snap hits Whitburn hard but players rally round club

Club secretary Raymond Wallace confirmed this week that talks had been held with Strickland's squad to keep them in the picture about the financial situation.

Like several other clubs, Whitburn are struggling after seeing so many games called off this season and the manager has been delighted with the response from his players.

"At the end of the day, the players appreciate the situation," said Strickland.

"They have contracts that can't be honoured at this moment in time and the club is looking to see how it can get through this difficult time."

Whitburn's situation hasn't been helped by the fact they were unable to play League Cup games at Central Park due to drainage work that was carried out on the pitch in the summer.

They last played at home on 5 December, when they lost 2-1 to Super League leaders Bo'ness, and, like most other clubs, have only had one other game since the middle of December.

"Outwith the two-week break over the Festive period, we've had nine games called off so far this season," said Strickland.

"It's a nightmare and, prior to our East of Scotland Cup tie against Fauldhouse a fortnight ago, our last game had been on 12 December.

"We've only had four home games in the Super League and last week probably summed up just how frustrating it has been.

"I went down to the park after my work on Friday afternoon and the pitch was playable. But we then get a heavy overnight frost and there was no chance of the game being played.

"After the snow earlier this week, there was another two inches on it and, unless there's a big thaw, I can't see our game against Lochee going ahead either."

All matches in the East Region are likely to have pitch inspections tomorrow morning.