Brentford pitch relaid in time for Reading on Saturday

Brentford have completed their pitch relay at Griffin Park ahead of Saturday's Sky Bet Championship game against Reading.

The new turf was laid to schedule over a three-day period but the pressure was on as Brentford had already postponed one game earlier this month and if the pitch was deemed unplayable, they could have suffered a fine or points deduction.

Brentford appointed a specialist to work alongside the club's operations team and both parties have ensured the pitch is ready for the weekend game.

The new surface combines natural grass with artificial fibres to improve durability, which prevents damage from wear and tear.

"The project was completed on schedule and we are pleased with the outcome," operations manager Alan Walsh told the club's official website.

"The coaching staff and players will be able to use the pitch for a training session before Saturday's game in order to give them a chance to be accustomed to the new surface.

"Fans may see small join lines when attending Saturday's match, however we are confident this will not affect performance of the surface and will disappear in time as part of our routine pitch maintenance programme."

County turf operations director Chris Medley, whose turf has been chosen for the re-lay, said: "We are happy with the installation and completion of this project for Brentford FC.

"The recent rainy weather has aided the pitch and will help to give it a solid foundation for its continued use throughout the season."