TOMORROW was due to mark the dawn of an exciting, new era for Hythe & Dibden FC.

But a ground-grading issue means they will have wait another week at least to play their first game at their new Clayfields home.

Media had been alerted and posters circulated by the Watersiders who had been hoping to christen their new pitch in front of a bumper crowd against Tadley Calleva in Sydenhams Wessex One tomorrow.

But, following yesterday’s visit by Sydenhams League officials, the celebrations have been put on hold.

Disappointed H&D secretary/assistant manager Scott Johnston explained: “Our game’s been called off tomorrow for health and safety reasons.

“We’ve had most of the hard standing done and there would have been plenty of room for spectators to stand safely, but there are a couple of patches around the pitch that the league aren’t happy about in case a player was to somehow slide through the barrier.

“They’ve told us the ground is not quite ready and they’re going to explain it to Tadley.

“It’s a shame, we had no idea those areas were a risk but, according to the league, they are.

“We’re a bit gutted about it because we’ve put posters out and everything, but our hands are tied. But we’re not going complain about it. Ian Hoare (Sydenhams League chairman) has done all he can to help us.”

Fortunately Hythe, who left their old Jones Lane base during the summer, have several more opportunities in the weeks ahead to mark Clayfields’ official opening.

With the exception of a December 27 trip to New Milton, they have six home fixtures pencilled in between now and the end of January.

“We’ve got Romsey next week (December 13) and, fingers crossed, that one will go ahead,” said Johnston. “If not, we’ve got plenty more home games to come.”