Fans pitch into battle to save Irish Cup ties as the freezingweatherbites
IRISH League fans are pitching in to help the Tennent’s Irish Cup beat the big freeze.
The cold weather has threatened to wipe out all of the quarter-final ties today and pitch inspections will be held early this morning. At Mourneview Park, where Glenavon are scheduled to take on Loughgall, fans have been asked to arrive early at the ground to help clear snow off the pitch.
Holders Linfield will host Cliftonville and heat lamps are being used to help make the pitch playable. Ballymena United are hopeful their home tie with Larne will go ahead, while Coleraine have also appealed for supporters to help the Showgrounds pitch pass a pitch inspection at 10am.
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“Every effort is being made to allow the games to go ahead,” stated the Irish FA, however the governing body and the clubs must also consider the safety and well-being of players and fans.
If more snow has fallen overnight then postponements are likely.
Linfield stated: “The Windsor Park pitch is presently playable.
“There are concerns about the surrounding areas and work is ongoing to eradicate those concerns.
“There are potential further snow showers forecast and the entire situation, including travel difficulties, is being kept under constant and very close review.”
Glenavon said: “A tractor is being employed to help clear the car park and the club requests that, if you are free to help clear the pitch, stands and car park please head to Mourneview Park from 8.30am if you can.
“Bring a shovel, wheelbarrow etc if possible. All help is greatly appreciated.”
The tie of the round is at Windsor Park where Linfield will grapple with the Reds.
Blues boss David Healy said: “It’s make or break for both teams because it’s the only trophy that is now available.”
Meanwhile, Ballinamallard United have lodged an appeal to the Irish FA over Ryan Harpur’s inclusion by Dungannon Swifts in last weekend’s Premiership game.
Harpur was sent off in Dungannon’s League Cup final win but the Swifts appealed against his ban and he got clearance to play against the Mallards — pending the outcome of the appeal.
However, Dungannon have now protested about that IFA decision.