TWO EFL clashes postponed over safety fears as Storm Darragh wrecks vital part of stadium

NOTTS County’s League Two clash against Colchester United has been postponed after high winds damaged a scoreboard.

Storm Darragh is wreaking havoc up and down the country, with League One’s Blackpool vs Rotherham also abandoned in the last hour.

Gusts of 90mph have seen a number of sporting fixtures cancelled, including Everton’s 12:30 kick-off against fierce rivals Liverpool.

And now Notts County are the latest side to be affected by the amber weather warnings.

The 3pm game has been postponed after two panels in the Kop scoreboard came loose in the 50mph high winds.

The scoreboard hangs directly above the goal at Meadow Lane and is fixed to the roof of the Kop end.

A Notts County statement read: “Following damage to one of the Meadow Lane scoreboards, this afternoon’s Sky Bet League Two fixture against Colchester United has been postponed in the interests of spectator and player safety.

“Two panels in the Kop scoreboard, which is fixed to the roof of the stand, have come loose in the recent high winds and it will not be possible to make the necessary repairs in time for the match to safely go ahead.

“Following conversations with this afternoon’s match officials, our opponents, the EFL and the Sports Ground Safety Authority, it’s been agreed that, particularly in light of this afternoon’s weather forecast, these loose panels pose a significant risk.

“Tickets and hospitality bookings will remain valid for the rearranged match, a date for which will be confirmed in due course. We’re unable to process any refund requests until the new date is set.”

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Just one point separates the sides, with the hosts sitting 16th and Colchester occupying the place below.

Fans of both teams were quick to react to the postponement.

One wrote on X: “Should of done it last night.”

Another said: “Safety first ❤.”

The League One fixture between Blackpool and Rotherham United has also been called off.

In a statement, Blackpool said: “After safety checks earlier this morning and in consultation with local agencies, the Club can confirm today’s match has unfortunately been postponed.”

A Blackpool fan raged on X: “The lack of communication from the club for this has been appalling. The amber weather warning has been in place for over 24 hours.”

Another said: “They announce it now when the travelling fans have probably already left.”

The National Grid has revealed that Darragh has left a whopping 32,600 homes in the Midlands and the south west without electricity.

The storm also led to the cancellation of two Championship games on Friday.

Under-fire Wayne Rooney’s Plymouth Argyle side’s clash against Oxford United was the first to be cancelled.

While Watford’s trip to Cardiff was also abandoned, after Wales was among the heaviest Home Nations hit by Storm Darragh.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for wind in the North West region.

Fans are eagerly waiting on decision to be made around Man United’s clash with Nottingham Forest at 5:30pm.

A statement on United’s website said: “Strong winds associated with Storm Darragh likely leading to some disruption and damage.”

And Crystal Palace have confirmed that their home clash against champions Man City will go ahead as planned at 3pm.

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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk