Unplayable pitch cancels Fareham-Moneyfields tie

By Connor Steel

FAREHAM TOWN FC have confirmed that their scheduled Wessex League Premier encounter against Moneyfields on Saturday afternoon (December 16) has been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch surface at Cams Alders; this highly anticipated postcode derby clash joining multiple non-league matches to be “called off” due to the recently wet weather.

The announcement was published on social media at approximately 11am and follows overnight showers, which added to the already soggy surface despite dry periods over the last forty-eight hours across Hampshire. An inspection from a local referee and members of staff identified limited areas where the surface was unplayable; citing safety as the issue.

A decision was made to postpone the match and therefore a new date will be confirmed in due course; much to the big disappointment of fans hoping to enjoy a last home match before Christmas. It was expected to be a massive crowd at Cams Alders as the hosts were aiming to avenge the huge 8-1 defeat they experienced versus Moneyfields in October.

The Creeksiders will further be concerned about potential fixture congestion in the New Year with the club only playing one home league game since mid-October; which finished two-one to Baffins Milton Rovers three weeks ago. Two big away games against Havant & Waterlooville and Cowes Sports await across the next seven days pending the weather.

At the time of publication (12:45pm) a number of matches in the Wessex Leagues have been postponed including AFC Portchester’s visit to Hythe & Dibden. Fleetland’s home clash against Downton will further have to be rescheduled due to the weather; although Gosport’s home match against Swindon Supermarine will go ahead at the AEI Stadium (3pm).

PICTURED BY NATHAN LIPSHAM: Moneyfields’ match at Fareham was postponed on Saturday due to ‘player safety’.