Boulevard were forced to forfeit their Premier Division game against Somerset Trojans at Somerset Cricket Club yesterday amid fears of gang violence.Due to a shortage of players, with many feeling unsafe travelling to the West End, relegation threatened Blazers had no choice but to concede the game to Trojans, who were awarded a 3-0 win.Blazers informed the Bermuda Football Association of their predicament just hours before kick off, with club president Lou Matthews admitting the late decision not to send a team had been without the blessing of the club’s hierarchy.The match had already been switched by the BFA from an evening to a weekend kick-off in an effort to improve safety.“This afternoon, the executive committee was informed by the players that there would not be sufficient numbers to make the trip to Somerset to play because of safety concerns by select players,” said Matthews, whose side also withdrew from the Friendship Trophy in December due to similar concerns.“We were left without a full complement of players, and this decision has not been supported by the executive committee nor is the official position of the club.“We have stood for these things for 37 years. As such we appeal for your support as we take bold steps to move forward.”Matthews went on to apologise to the supporters of both clubs, explaining that Pembroke-based Boulevard had been in regular contact with the Bermuda Police about security.“On behalf of the club, I want to apologise to all parties involved for any inconvenience called,” he said.“We had been in constant communication with police representatives including Acting Superintendent Estwik, who appraised of their own efforts to monitor the game.“The executive was satisfied with these arrangements and endeavoured to work with police officials to ensure safety for all involved.“Based on this, we assured the BFA that we would be sending a team.“This turn of events is unfortunate but is a cold realisation for this organisation that we cannot adequately ensure the safety of players whose lifestyles and decisions place themselves and others at risk.“We will not continue like this. We also realise that it is a bigger issue than this.“There are larger forces at work that will be the responsibility of this organisation and the entire community.”BFA president Larry Mussenden conceded that the social ills plaguing the domestic game needed to be addressed.“We were notified about some concerns that the club had in regards to the game in Somerset and were informed today that they would withdrew and we respected their decision,” said Mussenden.“We have taken this as a very serious matter, however, on a number of levels and the BFA executives will have to address this.“Football is a sport that bringing comminutes together and that clubs should be able to compete in our league at all venues.“We will have to address these issues, but I can’t speak any further until the executives meet.”