Rugby League: Hornets game against Batley postponed
Date published: 02 February 2018
Rochdale Hornets
Rochdale Hornets Championship opening game against Batley Bulldogs on Sunday has been postponed due to sustained weather damage to the Crown Oil Arena pitch in recent weeks.
There is no confirmed date for the rearranged fixture, but pre-purchased and season tickets will be valid for the rearranged match.
Steve Kerr, Rochdale Hornets CEO, said: “We are extremely disappointed that our season opener has to be called off and we share the fans frustrations, however the situation with the pitch is not going to change between now and Sunday.
“Alan [Kilshaw - Hornets coach], his staff and all of the squad have worked extremely hard throughout pre-season and have prepared well for the Batley game. The early decision will help the squad focus their attention on next Sunday’s away clash at Swinton.
“We have worked alongside the football club over the past three weeks to prepare the pitch, however, it is the fourth fixture that has been postponed in the last two weeks so we recognise the importance of the emergency maintenance work and support the current plan that is in place.
Rochdale AFC CEO, Russ Green said: “Rochdale Football Club would like to thank Rochdale Hornets for their continued support and co-operation.
“We have been in regular dialogue with Hornets regarding all pitch decisions, and the relationship between the two clubs has never been stronger.
“We understand Hornets’ frustrations in losing their first game of the season, however we are grateful to them for recognising the importance of the work that is currently being carried out.
“We wish Alan, his staff and players the very best of luck for the season ahead.”
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Following concern about the condition of the pitch at the Crown Oil Arena, and games being postponed as a result, a dome type pitch cover has arrived at the ground.
This will allow work to take place on the pitch without ground staff/contractors being hindered by the elements.
Ground staff/contractors can work under the cover, enabling them to carry out a drill and fill procedure.
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