Fleetwood plan end to pitch problem

Fleetwood Town FC will "rip up" their pitch at the end of the season and replace it in a bid to avoid another plague of postponements in 2008/09.
Last night's Blackpool Reserves match against Morecambe was the third Highbury fixture in 10 days to be called off because the pitch was unplayable.

Fleetwood Town have managed to stage only one game since the FA Cup tie against Hartlepool in November, and three of their last four home fixtures have bitten the dust.

And although the sub-zero temperatures have hardly helped in recent days, the club acknowledges the weather is only part of the problem.

Chairman Andy Pilley said: "I'm sure everybody shares my frustration at losing games to the weather. I know that our pitch isn't the best and we will do whatever we can to get through to the end of the season without losing any more games.

"We plan to rip it up and relay it as soon as the season ends to ensure that the problems we have had in the past couple of seasons are resolved once and for all.

"We are still receiving quotes and options for a brand new playing surface and drainage position in time for next season. This is a major investment but is one we feel necessary as we progress.

"We are now entering a crucial stage of the season as we strive to pull clear of the relegation places and we have new players kicking their heels waiting to pull on a Fleetwood shirt."

Chief executive Steve Curwood shares this desire to resolve the problem, adding: "It is every fan's worst scenario not knowing whether a game will be on or off, and away fans face the dilemma of not knowing how long to leave it before setting off."

Fleetwood added that all possible steps will be taken to ensure Saturday's Blue Square North clash with Gainsborough goes ahead.

Source:-Blackpool Gazette