Speaking on the ColU Official Web Site, their Chief Exec, Marie Partner, is quoted as saying: "Over the past week, the club has received various communications from supporters suggesting their disappointment at the inclusion of the MK Dons [sorry - Franchise FC] fixture. This game was included after the Dons were proactive and helpful enough to step in following the late cancellation of the game against Rushden & Diamonds, who were due to carry out pitch maintenance at the time of the original fixture. Having consulted with manager Phil Parkinson, he told us that he felt that any pre-season fixture should fit in with his plans to prepare the team fully football wise for the 2006/7 season and the challenges of Championship football. However, as always, he and the club were conscious of the fans feelings and we were happy to switch fixtures as long as a footballing test could be secured at a level which would be beneficial for the team's development ahead of the new campaign".
This is not the first pre-season fixture to be cancelled at the National Hockey Stadium as Ipswich Town also bowed to fan pressure.
The date for the match is likely to be on Saturday, July 22nd.
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