Congleton Town's upcoming fixture against Macclesfield FC will be played at a neutral venue.

Clashes between spectators marred the previous meeting between the two sides, at Macclesfield's Leasing.com Stadium.

Macclesfield FC Director of Football Robbie Savage and Owner Rob Smethurst had to intervene to allow play to continue, and was featured in the BBC's Macclesfield FC documentary.

The Silkmen won the original fixture 1-0, but after seven Macclesfield arrested by Cheshire Police, the upcoming match on March 26 2022 will not be held at Congleton's ground.

Macclesfield FC's Director of Communications Bob Trafford confirmed the change of venue, but no specific pitch has yet been decided.

"Robbie, Patrick and I met with Congleton officials yesterday and discussed all options regarding staging the game," he said.

"Clearly our position was that we want as many Macc fans present as possible and in a manner which is safe for all concerned.

"As a result, we discussed the potential to stage the game at an alternative local venue.

"This will be finalised in the next couple of days and we will be able to more definitively very soon."

Bob was speaking in the Official Macclesfield FC Facebook group.

The Silkmen will be going for all three points as they are primed for promotion from the North West Counties Football League.

Just eight miles separate Macclesfield FC and Congleton Town FC's grounds.

The Bears' early promotion push was derailed when Macclesfield FC's James Berry-McNally nicked the only goal of the game, and our town's football club dipped in form since.

Congleton Town FC - who were set to have home field advantage - now sit in 10th in the NWCFL.

Congleton Town FC have been contacted for comment.

Congleton: Where would you like to see the game played?

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