Dundee’s Betfred Cup clash with Forfar is off after their opponents returned a positive Covid-19 test.
James McPake’s Dark Blues side – who had been preparing for their first competitive match of the 2020/21 campaign – have been awarded a 3-0 win following the development.
The game was due to kick off at Dens Park at 7.45pm.
Hampden chiefs issued a statement tonight confirming the cancellation of the match – and Dundee’s victory.
They said: “The SPFL has awarded a 3-0 win to Dundee FC in this evening’s Betfred Cup tie between Dundee and Forfar Athletic, after Forfar Athletic informed the SPFL that they are not able to fulfil the fixture.
“Forfar Athletic informed the SPFL this afternoon that they had today been informed that one of their players had tested positive for Covid-19. The player is now self-isolating.
“The club is now liaising with the Scottish FA and Test and Protect to establish whether any other players will need to self-isolate.
“As this process will not be completed in time for this evening’s match, Forfar Athletic informed the SPFL that they will be unable to fulfil the fixture.”
An SPFL spokesman added: “Unfortunately, this is the second of tonight’s scheduled Betfred Cup fixtures which we have required to cancel and is further evidence of the very challenging season we are facing.
“We have real sympathy for Forfar Athletic, who were looking forward to competing in their first competitive match of the season.
“However, consistent with the announcement in respect of the Falkirk v Kilmarnock match, any team unable or unwilling to field a team in a Betfred Cup Round 1 group stage tie will forfeit the match on the basis of a 3-0 defeat.
“Accordingly, Dundee FC have been awarded a 3-0 win in the tie.
“We wish the player concerned the very best in his recovery and will continue to liaise with Forfar Athletic in the coming days.”
