Early decision avoids big loss

frozen out . . . Athletic chief executive Alan Hardy surveys the Boundary Park pitch after the npower League One match against Swindon Town was postponed.

ATHLETIC avoided a possible £10,000 loss by having the Swindon Town clash called off on Friday lunchtime.

A local referee ruled that the npower League One clash could not go ahead, due to a combination of surface water and a frozen section of the pitch in front of the main stand.

Though the postponement led to disappointment among fans, chief executive Alan Hardy said the correct procedures had been followed.

“If the pitch is doubtful, it is our job to ascertain the visitors’ travelling arrangements and then inform the Football League,” said Hardy, who added that Swindon were planning to travel to the game on Friday.

“The Football League then sends an official to inspect and only that official can make a decision on whether the game can go ahead.

“The postponement affects us in terms of immediate cash-flow,” said Hardy.

“But if the game had been called off on Saturday it would have been more disappointing and could have cost us around £10,000.”

No new date has yet been set for the game.