Sub-soil drainage problem to blame for postponement of Eastleigh v Chester

The problematic corner of their new pitch, between the blue and green stands, was ruled unplayable by the matchday referee following a noon inspection.

It's another disappointment for the Spitfires who lost two potentially lucrative pre-season friendlies against AFC Wimbledon and Portsmouth because the new pitch had not sufficiently bedded in.

And earlier in the season, kick-off in their home league match against Dagenham & Redbridge was delayed by ten minutes because of concerns over that one boggy corner at the far end of the ground.

Eastleigh's statement regarding this afternoon's postponement reads: "Following a pitch inspection from today’s match officials, our game against Chester has been postponed.

"It is with regret this decision has been made so close to kick-off. However, every care had been taken in advance of the game to prevent this from happening.

"A match official was called in on Friday afternoon to view the pitch and, following this inspection, it was deemed safe to play. This information was relayed to today’s referee Mr Savvas Yianni on Friday afternoon.

"Upon arriving at the ground today, the match officials have taken the view that player safety was at risk and decided to postpone the game.

"Ground staff had covered the small affected area overnight to protect the surface from any rainfall which was forecast.

"However, the problem with this area of the pitch is not a surface water issue but a sub-soil drainage problem. Additional drainage has been installed in the affected area over the past week.

"This issue is being addressed immediately and emergency work will commence Monday.

"Fans who have purchased tickets in advance are entitled to a full refund and this will be available from the club shop.

"Should fans wish to keep their tickets, these will be okay to use for the re-arranged game or for another league game of your choice.

"The club will make no further comment on this issue."