Premier League fixtures at risk after snow and ice warnings | Football | Sport
Several Premier League fixtures could be in danger of postponement this weekend after the Met Office issued yellow warnings for snow and ice throughout the country.
The cold weather has already impacted English Football League and Non-League fixtures. Notts County’s League Two clash against Gillingham, scheduled for Sunday, has already been postponed due to a frozen pitch.
The Met Office’s yellow warning for snow and ice across the East Midlands, East of England, North East England and Yorkshire and Humber started at 5pm on Friday and lasts until 11.59pm on Saturday night.
The yellow warning for ice continues at 12am on Sunday, until 12pm on the same day. Another yellow warning for snow and ice covers the East Midlands, North West England, South West England, Wales and the West Midlands from 3pm on Sunday until 12pm on Monday.
Teams due to play in those areas will therefore be keeping a close eye on the weather and the forecast. In the Premier League, there are four games due to be played in the affected areas.
Leeds United host Manchester United in the 12.30pm kick-off on Sunday, with Yorkshire already having been blasted by snow. Likewise, snow in the North East means Newcastle United’s clash against Crystal Palace at St. James’ Park at 3pm on the same day could be affected.
At the same time, Everton host Brentford at the Hill Dickinson Stadium. Manchester City also take on Chelsea at the Etihad Stadium in a 5.30pm kick-off on Sunday.
According to Premier League rules, if there is an indication of a match being impacted by the weather, then clubs are advised to contact the match referee at least 48 hours before kick-off. A pitch inspection will then take place early on a matchday.
Unlike in lower leagues, most Premier League stadiums shouldn’t have the problem of frozen pitches, given the undersoil heating at their disposal. The main problem could, however, be the safety of the surrounding areas of the stadium for the fans in attendance.
The decision to postpone a match due to fan safety is taken by the ground’s safety officer or the Safety Advisory Group in consultation with the local police. The decision to postpone a match is one taken as a last resort.
