Gers go under cover

Rangers and Cowdenbeath will jointly fund a pitch protection system to ensure Wednesday’s rearranged Scottish Cup clash at Central Park goes ahead.

The January 18 fourthround clash was called off after a local ref deemed that areas of the pitch were frozen, despite Cowden having laid pitch covers.

Following a meeting of both clubs and SFA officials on Friday, protective sheets and a heating system will be acquired to safeguard against temperatures that are set to plummet at the start of the week.

There was controversy in the wake of the call-off, wi t h Cowdenb e a th chairman Donald Findlay taking a pop at Ibrox kitman Jimmy Bell.

But the clubs have now come together to make sure the tie is played.

A Cowden spokesperson said: “We have been actively involved in discussions this week with both the SFA and Rangers as we sought to devise a plan to best ensure Wednesday’s rearranged match can go ahead.

“Colder weather is forecast in the run-up to the game. Cowdenbeath and Rangers agreed to jointly fund a pitch protection system to be installed and utilised.

“A cover system is now being brought in to fully protect the pitch. A heating system wi l l then be deployed to introduce warm air underneath.

“That will continuously incubate the pitch and increase soil temperature even after removal a few hours before kick-off.

“Grateful thanks go to the SFA and Rangers for working closely with us for the benefit of all pparties.”