Grieving Boulevard Blazers will now play their opening Martonmere Cup Group A match with cup holders Devonshire Cougars September 29 at BAA Field, Bermuda Football Association (BFA) announced yesterday.

In a touching gesture of solidarity, the association upheld a request by the Premier Division club to have the match pushed back as to allow players additional time to overcome the tragic loss of skipper Shaki Crockwell who was gunned down last month.

"The Executive Committee wishes to confirm that the match between DRC (Devonshire Cougars) and Boulevard Blazers has been rescheduled for Saturday, September 29 at 8 p.m. at BAA Field. This decision was made as a result of a meeting between the Executive Committee of the Boulevard Community Club and the BFA," read a press release issued on behalf of the BFA executive.

"Boulevard's executives advised the BFA of their internal concerns and challenges regarding their club/players, since the unfortunate death of their team captain Shaki Crockwell. And their concerns were considered and communicated to the Devonshire Recreation Club who greed with rescheduling the match in a show of solidarity and fair play.

"While the effects of this incident may linger on for some time, it is important for the BFA to come to the aid of its member clubs in times of difficulty and this is one example of this show of solidarity and concern. Additionally, we plead for the football family to unite and do all that is possible to help galvanise and rejuvenate the positive spirit within and around the Boulevard Community Club and football in general, so that we may enjoy an exciting 2007-08 season."

Prior to tomorrow night's Martonmere Cup Group B clash between North Village Rams and Dandy Town the association intend to commemorate FIFA's Fair Play Day and the International Day of Peace by asking every player, official, referee and fan to link arms and stand in unison and observe a moment of silence.

"At this time in our history fair play must be at the core of our sport and everyone involved in our sport must play their part, whether big or small to uphold these values," the statement continued. "We need to cherish and nurture the values of sporting spirit and work tirelessly to keep up the momentum of developing and promoting our sport."