Storm Chandra causes chaos as EFL matches postponed on account of heavy rain and robust winds
The UK has been hit with adverse weather over the past day, with strong winds, heavy rain and some snow among the conditions, leading to three EFL matches being postponed
Storm Chandra has caused chaos up and down the country(Image: Getty Images)
Three EFL fixtures have been axed as Storm Chandra wreaks havoc across Britain.
The nation has been battered by brutal weather conditions over the last 24 hours, with fierce gales, torrential downpours and patches of snow creating mayhem. With a packed midweek programme of League One and League Two clashes on the cards, it was inevitable that football would feel the pinch.
That’s exactly what’s happened, with three matches already scrapped well ahead of kick-off. Cheltenham Town’s home clash against Gillingham has been binned due to a waterlogged pitch, reports the Mirror.
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The Robins announced: “We regret to inform supporters that tonight’s Sky Bet League Two fixture with Gillingham at the EV Charger Points Stadium has been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.
“A pitch inspection was carried out at 9:30AM after persistent heavy rainfall overnight in the area that has continued into this morning.
“Match officials appointed by the EFL inspected the surface at the EV Charger Points Stadium and made the decision to postpone the clash, with no prospect of pitch conditions improving in time for this evening.”
Both clubs have struggled for consistency in League Two this campaign, with Gillingham languishing in 12th spot whilst Cheltenham find themselves in 18th, trailing by eight points.
Meanwhile, Port Vale were due to host Wimbledon on Tuesday night in League One, but that match has also been called off. The club announced: “Following a pitch inspection, the Vale Park playing surface has been deemed unplayable by the match official due to large amounts of standing water. This evening’s match against AFC Wimbledon has been postponed.”
Wimbledon are languishing in 18th place after managing just nine victories from their first 26 fixtures. Port Vale meanwhile appear destined for relegation to League Two, having collected a measly 18 points so far this campaign.
Another fixture axed is Barrow’s home encounter with Oldham Athletic. The hosts confirmed: “At the recommendation of the Safety Advisory Group, following a full assessment of conditions ahead of this evening’s fixture, the decision has been taken to postpone the match against Oldham Athletic on safety grounds.
“The UK is currently being impacted by Storm Chandra, and local forecast wind speeds and gusts are at a level that present a risk to supporter safety. These conditions affect not only the stadium footprint itself, but also local travel routes and the ability for emergency services to operate effectively if required.
“We have seen from previous similar weather events that deteriorating conditions can escalate quickly and unpredictably. On this basis, and with safety as the overriding priority, the club has formally consulted with the Safety Advisory Group (SAG) and relevant stakeholders before reaching this decision.
“While we understand the frustration this decision may cause, particularly for supporters who have already made plans to attend, supporter safety must always come first. We’ve made this decision as early as possible to avoid any supporters travelling.”
