Just moments before the scheduled kick-off, the eagerly awaited FA Cup second-round clash between non-league Alfreton Town and Walsall from League Two was abruptly postponed due to a frozen pitch. This unexpected twist came despite the game being set for a 12:30 GMT start and slated for live broadcast on BBC One. Match officials, after assessing the conditions at the Impact Arena, concluded the pitch was too hazardous for play.
This match held particular significance for Alfreton Town, a team from the National League North, as they were on the cusp of making their first-ever appearance in the third round of the competition. A new date for this postponed encounter remains to be decided.
In a dramatic scene, the stadium, filled with fans, witnessed the culmination of efforts by volunteers and club staff who had tirelessly worked to shield the pitch from the freezing temperatures with covers. Despite their best efforts, referee Sam Allison, after a late inspection at around 12:20 GMT, less than ten minutes before the planned start, decided to call off the game.
The call to postpone was met with disappointment and audible disapproval from the home crowd, who had turned up in anticipation of a potential giant-killing act. However, Walsall manager Mat Sadler supported the decision, citing safety concerns. Speaking to BBC Match of the Day Live, Sadler remarked, “The pitch was like a rock, and it was clear to me it wasn’t safe for play. It’s a tough call, but player safety must come first, and it seems common sense has won the day.”
This cancellation adds to a growing list of fixtures disrupted by the cold snap, including Crewe’s FA Cup tie with Bristol Rovers and several National League matches, not to mention a number of games in Scotland.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about FA Cup postponement
Why was the Alfreton Town vs. Walsall FA Cup match postponed?
The Alfreton Town vs. Walsall FA Cup match was postponed just minutes before kick-off due to a frozen pitch. The match officials deemed the Impact Arena surface to be unplayable, citing safety concerns.
Were there efforts to prevent the pitch from freezing?
Yes, volunteers and club staff had worked hard to cover the pitch in an attempt to shield it from freezing temperatures. Despite their efforts, the referee decided the conditions were too hazardous for play.
What were the reactions of the fans?
The decision to postpone the match was met with disappointment and boos from the home supporters who had gathered at the stadium, hoping to witness a cup upset.
How did Walsall’s manager react to the postponement?
Walsall manager Mat Sadler supported the decision to call off the game, stating that the pitch was rock hard and unsafe for play. He emphasized that player safety should always be a priority.
Are there other matches affected by the cold snap?
Yes, besides this match, Crewe’s FA Cup tie with Bristol Rovers and several National League matches, along with several games in Scotland, were also postponed due to the cold weather conditions.
More about FA Cup postponement
- BBC Sport: Alfreton Town P-P Walsall – FA Cup second-round tie called off
- BBC Sport: FA Cup second round – Live text coverage
- BBC Sport: Alfreton’s ex-boxer looking to deliver knockout blow
- BBC Sport: How to follow FA Cup second round on BBC
- BBC Sport: Crewe’s FA Cup tie with Bristol Rovers postponed
1 comment
dis is a real bummer, man. wuz lookin fwd to watchin’ Alfreton Town take on Walsall. pitch freeze sux!