RUFC - Ref 'Players Safety Paramount'

Rotherham United`s game with Accrington Stanley last night was called-off for fear for the players` safety, Referee Chris Sarginson told The Star.

Speaking to Les Payne at The Crown Ground, Mr Sarginson said, 'An hour before the game it was fine but as we were getting changed and looked out we could see the ball starting to stick on the surface when the players` were warming-up. I went out for my warn-up half-an-hour before kick-off and it was quickly apparent there was a problem.

'I informed both Managers and although they weren`t happy it was an easy decision to make. Player safety is paramount and I was concerned for them and their safety.

'One goal area and the far side were already in a dangerous condition and the forecast was for more rain. Had I started the match and a player had got a serious injury then I wouldn`t have been able to defend myself.`

To be fair those of us who were at the ground at 6.30pm did enquire if there was a possibility of the game being called off and when we went into the stadium half-an-hour later we were a bit surprised that it was still on at that time - not only due to the poor conditions on the pitch but also the away end was flooded and not at all easily accessible.

I think we are all now praying for good weather as we are making arrangements to travel to York on Saturday - where they are still clearing up after floods last week.






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