The fixture comes as a result of COVID restrictions being relaxed in order to allow non-elite clubs to resume matches with one-another, with both sides awaiting a return to domestic league action.

With the halting of the season lasting a month amid the short-term lockdown, Worthing return to action sitting top of the Pitching In Isthmian Premier League with two games in hand – although lost their most recent two fixtures in the FA Trophy and the Sussex Senior Cup, on penalties to Leiston and 2-1 to Three Bridges respectively.

Meanwhile, hosts Pagham entered the football suspension sitting eighth in the Southern Combination Football League having also last played in the senior cup, brushing aside Hailsham Town by six goals to nil.

The two sides met in the final of the Dave Kew Memorial Cup during pre-season – playing out an entertaining match which saw Worthing run out 6-4 winners thanks to braces from Kieron Pamment and Ollie Pearce, and also goals from Mo Jammeh and Stevan Jovanovic.

Pagham FC have also issued the following safety procedures in light of COVID-19 in order to maintain maximum safety:

“Pagham FC – Matchday Update: 

• Fans are allowed to attend.
• Refreshments & Alcohol to be served from the hatch.
• Clubhouse CLOSED.

“Upon entry, everyone must sign in for track and trace purposes either on the NHS app or on our printed from. Please use the hand gel provided.”