Notts County have had their massive top-of-the-table clash in the National League postponed due to a frozen pitch.
The Magpies’ trip to Chesterfield was set to take place at 5:20pm this Saturday, but after two pitch inspections at the Technique Stadium, it has fallen foul of the weather.
It is the latest of nine National League fixtures this weekend to be postponed, with freezing overnight temperatures causing havoc right across the United Kingdom.
The freeze also resulted in the loss of Blackpool’s fixture against Huddersfield Town in the Championship, games at Bristol Rovers, Lincoln City, Morecambe and Peterborough United in League One, and another eight matches in League Two.
Chesterfield reported that it was one area of their pitch that was suffering the worst of the freeze to cause a second pitch inspection at 1:30pm, and ultimately it was this patch that has seen the game called off.
Fans reacted to the news with visible disappointment, with one fan on Twitter saying: “Think Chesterfield are scared of us. Absolutely ridiculous to postpone it so late especially for those Magpie fans travelling.”
🚨 𝗚𝗔𝗠𝗘 𝗢𝗙𝗙 🚨
Despite the best efforts of our grounds staff, today's match against Notts County has been postponed due a frozen pitch.
Subject to National League approval, it is hoped that the game will be played on February, 11.#Spireites pic.twitter.com/omv2qrwTuH
— Chesterfield FC (@ChesterfieldFC) January 21, 2023
Another fan, however, said: “Not surprising given the overnight temps this week. Too much for frost covers – only under soil heating would have the game on.”
County have stated that the game will be rescheduled for Saturday 11 February, subject to approval from National League organisers.
A statement read: “All tickets will remain valid for the rearranged date. If you can’t attend, please check our website next week for information on refunds.”
The date of 11 February has been made free due to County’s original opponents on that date, Eastleigh, having progressed to the next stage of the FA Trophy.
County are next in action as they travel to Solihull Moors on Tuesday 24 January.
The visit to the 13th-placed Moors will kick off at 7:45pm at Damson Park, with Luke Williams’ side looking to kick on from the disappointment of a blank weekend by continuing their promotion push.
County’s closest title rivals, Wrexham, have guaranteed action today as they travel to Maidstone United, whose 4G pitch at the Gallagher Stadium can withstand the temperatures.
With one eye on Wrexham’s result to see if the Welsh club take top spot, it will be a difficult afternoon for County fans but one they will quickly want to move on from.
