We understand the frustration felt by supporters of both clubs following today’s postponement. As a club, we know how disappointing late decisions are for travelling fans in particular, and we have ourselves been on the receiving end of similar postponements at away fixtures in the past.

The club’s clear preference is for any match to go ahead, subject at all times to player safety and welfare. However, once match officials arrive at the stadium, the authority to determine whether a fixture is played rests solely with the referee. Clubs do not have the jurisdiction to call a game off.

The decision to postpone today’s fixture was therefore made by the referee following inspections of the pitch and discussions involving both managers. In the interests of transparency, here is a timeline of events from earlier today;

08:00
An early pitch inspection was carried out. The surface was deemed firm in places, albeit with frost covers having performed as intended overnight.

Morning to midday
The pitch continued to be monitored by the grounds team, with senior club personnel present throughout.

Approx. 11:15
One of the match officials arrived early and walked the pitch alongside the groundsman.

Approx. 12:15
The referee arrived at the stadium and conducted a pitch inspection. One isolated hard area was identified, and a request was made for a heat lamp to be deployed in that area. This was actioned immediately. Morecambe FC arrived in the local area and were preparing for the match nearby.

13:15
Players being to arrive at the stadium and are told the match will go ahead.

Pre match warm up
Players from both teams began their warm ups as scheduled.

14:45
Following further inspections and discussions involving both managers, the referee made the decision to postpone the match.

15:00 Onwards
Following the postponement, attention turned to a safe egress from the stadium, along with ensuring we could quickly communicate with supporters regarding refunds and next steps.

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We appreciate that this outcome is deeply frustrating for supporters of both clubs, particularly given the late nature of the decision. The club acted throughout in line with competition regulations and in cooperation with match officials, with player safety as the overriding priority.

Supporters are encouraged to refer to the club’s original statement, which includes full information regarding ticket refunds and next steps:
https://altrinchamfc.com/blogs/news/morecambe-game-postponed