Rowe sorry for Birmingham fans as club prepares for the end

TONY Rowe says his sympathies are with Birmingham & Solihull's fans as the club is expected to fold this week.

The Midlands outfit have huge debts and have been unable to put together a rescue package so far, although head coach Russell Earnshaw was reportedly meeting Birmingham City's new owners yesterday in a last-ditch attempt to save the club.

Exeter Chiefs supremo Rowe says the demise of the Bees would cause problems for other clubs.

"I feel sorry for the supporters," he said. "Players can find new jobs, as many have done, but the supporters turn up and have been let down. Clubs who are in their British & Irish Cup group will miss out on even more games."

While Championship clubs wait to find out what will happen if the Bees go out of business, they are set for talks with the RFU next month about the Championship final.

Tickets went on sale last week for just £10 but have now been withdrawn after clubs complained.

"All the RFU have done is devalue the competition," said Rowe. "We're meeting them to discuss our displeasure."