Oldham Game Off. ClubStatement

This afternoon’s Vanarama National League match at home to Oldham Athletic has been postponed.

The frost covers had been in place all week and did their job, with the pitch in a playable condition when they were removed on Friday afternoon. However, frost covers do not prevent rainfall from affecting the pitch.

The overnight and morning rain means the pitch is now waterlogged, with a forecast of continued heavy rain throughout the day leading the match official to postpone the fixture.

Co-Chairman Simon Gauge: “I would like to thank both the ground staff and wider staff at the club for all of their efforts this week in the most challenging of weather conditions to try and get the most anticipated derby for quite some time on.

“Unfortunately, since 5am this morning, the combination of heavy snow and rain has left certain parts of the pitch in an unplayable condition.”

A rearranged date for the game will be confirmed in due course.

Any tickets purchased will be valid for the rearranged fixture. Supporters who can’t make the new date can request a refund, once the rearranged date has been confirmed, by emailing tickets@rochdaleafc.co.uk.