Dale boss ‘sorry’ for ‘embarrassing’ state of ground

THE chief executive of Rochdale AFC has apologised to Huddersfield Town fans for the state of Spotland, calling it a ‘massive embarrassment’.

Dale boss Russ Green said he had written to Terriers supporters who had taken the time to complain about the bird muck-splattered seats and flooded toilets at last Saturday’s FA Cup match.

Mr Green told our sister paper the Huddersfield Examiner he had become aware of problems only after game, which Rochdale lost 4-0, had ended.

He said: “I have replied to each complaint individually and I welcome the feedback. To be fair it’s a massive embarrassment.

“We have systems in place and staff who do clean up but things have been missed.

“I have had a meeting with staff and given them a massive blasting because it is not acceptable.”

Mr Green said the club prided itself on making visitors feel welcome.

He added: “I found out Saturday afternoon, which was too late.” ●●Russ Green has apologised to Huddersfield Town fans for the state of Spotland which involved bird muck on seats (inset) and blocked toilets

He said stewards had alerted maintenance staff to the filthy seats during the game and some had been washed. A blocked toilet had since been fixed, he added.

He has received seven emails from Huddersfield fans who had complained to the club. Stadium improvements are planned but there was a ‘shoestring budget’, he added.