Orlando Pirates and Golden Arrows’ PSL match was called off after two inspections revealed that the Mpumalanga Stadium turf was unplayable.
The match, which had Arrows hosting Pirates, was abandoned due to a waterlogged pitch and match commissioner George Boodhoo has revealed how the decision to cancel the encounter was reached.
“We did an earlier inspection at half past six and the referees came back and they were unhappy with the situation and because the match kicks off at 19.30, we couldn’t make a decision earlier than that,” Boodhoo told SuperSport TV.
Collective decision to abandon match
“We were hoping that it improves but a second inspection at seven o’clock revealed that the pitch is waterlogged and it is unsafe and unconducive for football.
“So, the referees in conjunction with me have taken a decision, the pitch is unplayable and the match is abandoned.”
It is not known if the match will be played on Thursday, or at a later date, as Boodhoo has left that decision on the PSL who did not give an immediate response following the abandonment.
When will the match be played?
“The PSL will take a decision in terms of the outcome of the match. Most probably it might be a replay, a restart,” added Boodhoo.
“That is what I would expect but it is not totally pulled off the calendar. It has to be played some day.”
The match abandonment means Pirates now have three games in hand over leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who have played 17 to their 14.
Pirates are second on the with 33 points but could find themselves 12 points behind the PSL champions if Miguel Cardoso’s men secure maximum points against Marumo Gallants at the Dr Molemela Stadium on Wednesday.
