UPDATE: Blackburn Rovers were forced to abandon their Championship match against Sheffield Wednesday due to a waterlogged pitch on December 2, 2023. This marks the second abandonment of the season, raising urgent questions about the pitch conditions at Ewood Park.
The ongoing issues with the playing surface come after an earlier abandonment against Ipswich Town on September 20, when the match was halted with the score at 1-0 in favor of the hosts with just ten minutes remaining. Both incidents have prompted serious concerns among fans and officials regarding the drainage capabilities of the pitch.
According to Alan Nixon via his Patreon, Blackburn Rovers consulted drainage specialists who have successfully worked with elite clubs like Manchester City and Manchester United. The specialists reported that Ewood Park’s pitch has a drainage capacity of 60%, which is considered “comfortably above EFL regulations.” However, the club is taking proactive measures to enhance the drainage system, including the installation of new drainage holes.
Despite these efforts, the geographical challenges posed by the nearby River Darwen and the aging infrastructure complicate rapid drainage during heavy rainfall. Referee Ruebyn Ricardo made the difficult decision to abandon the match after assessing the unplayable conditions, leading to further frustrations for players and supporters alike.
The outcome of the abandoned game against Sheffield Wednesday remains uncertain, as Blackburn Rovers issued a statement indicating that the result will follow EFL guidelines. Given the precedent of the Ipswich match, a full replay is highly likely, which could disrupt the team’s momentum as they were leading 1-0 at the time of the stoppage.
As the winter months approach, it is crucial for Blackburn Rovers to address these pitch issues to avoid further disruptions. The club is exploring various solutions to protect the pitch against adverse weather conditions, but sources indicate that “there’s no guarantee of success.”
With more inclement weather expected, the stakes are high for the club. Ongoing pitch problems not only affect player performance but also impact fan attendance and club reputation. If another match is abandoned this season, there will be mounting pressure for significant renovations during the off-season.
The urgency to resolve these issues is palpable as Blackburn Rovers aim to secure their place in the Championship while ensuring that fans can enjoy uninterrupted football. The club’s immediate focus is on implementing effective short-term fixes as they navigate the challenging winter schedule.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing situation affecting Blackburn Rovers and Ewood Park.
