Newport County's Emirates FA Cup tie against Blackburn postponed
Saturday 9 January 2016 21:19, UK
Newport County's Emirates FA Cup third round tie against Blackburn Rovers has been called off due to a waterlogged pitch.
Referee Charles Breakspear inspected the pitch at Rodney Parade and deemed the playing surface unplayable due to heavy rain in the hours leading up to the 3pm kick-off.
The match was set to go ahead after a pitch inspection at 1pm, but consistent rain in the subsequent hour led to the decision by Mr Breakspear at 2pm.
Rovers boss Paul Lambert was disappointed for the club's fans following their journey from Lancashire, but said he understood the referee's decision to postpone the fixture.
"Water is lying on the pitch, so the ball is not going to roll and it's dangerous for everybody concerned," Lambert told the Rovers website. "I never thought anything of it when I first arrived. We got up this morning and had a walk and it was pretty pleasant, so I never expected the pitch to be like it is.
"The referee has a big decision to make and he's called it the way he sees it. I understand it, but I'm disappointed it's off. I just feel sorry for the supporters, because they've travelled four hours to get here and now they're out of pocket."
A date for the rearranged fixture will be announced in due course.
