Despite the inspecting referee giving the surface every possible chance, ongoing thawing conditions have left the pitch in a state which is likely to deteriorate come kick-off.

While there had been hope that overnight frost would lift and allow for safe play, the opposite has occurred. As temperatures rise throughout the day, the surface is deteriorating further rather than improving.

After warm-ups, the pitch would almost certainly be severely damaged, creating unsafe conditions for players.

A rearranged date for the match will be confirmed in due course.