Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 13, 2024 1:38 pm GMT
Newcastle United’s eagerly anticipated Carabao Cup third round match against AFC Wimbledon has been postponed due to unexpected flooding at the Cherry Red Records Stadium. Scheduled for Tuesday evening at 7:45 PM BST, the match was called off after heavy rainfall rendered the pitch unplayable, leaving both clubs scrambling for a solution.
Heavy Rainfall Causes Widespread Disruption
The postponement comes as parts of Great Britain experience what has been termed a “megastorm.” Intense rainfall has caused significant flooding in various regions, leading to severe disruptions across transportation networks. Commuters in London faced major delays as roads became submerged, and several London Underground lines were suspended due to weather-related issues.
Areas affected by the flooding reported:
- Nearly a month’s worth of rain fell in some locations between midnight and 8 AM.
- Four London Underground lines, including the Bakerloo and District lines, experienced part-suspensions.
- Roads in Essex and Oxfordshire were inundated, making travel dangerous for drivers.
Impact on Newcastle and AFC Wimbledon
The cancellation of the Newcastle vs. Wimbledon match adds to the challenges for both clubs. Eddie Howe, the Newcastle manager, had to cancel his pre-match press conference just 25 minutes ahead of its scheduled time as news of the postponement broke. Affected by the flooding, parts of the pitch at Plough Lane suffered damage, making it impossible for the game to proceed.
A spokesperson for AFC Wimbledon mentioned, “We are currently assessing the damage and will keep all ticket holders updated as we figure out the next steps.” Fans are advised to await further communication regarding ticket refunds and potential rescheduling.
Next Steps for Rescheduling
Finding a new date for the match poses a problem for both teams, given their already packed schedules. Key points about rescheduling include:
- AFC Wimbledon is set to face Crewe the following Tuesday, limiting flexibility for rearrangements.
- Newcastle’s upcoming games include critical Premier League fixtures against Manchester City and Everton.
- Carabao Cup regulations allow for a neutral venue, which could be utilized if necessary.
- The option exists to push the match to align with fourth-round dates of the Carabao Cup.
Fans and officials are watching closely for updates on how the clubs will navigate this unexpected scheduling challenge.
Current Weather Warnings
The Met Office has issued multiple weather warnings as the storm continues to wreak havoc across the country. An amber warning is currently in effect for parts of central and southwestern England, with a yellow warning covering much of the southern half of the UK, the Midlands, and even reaching parts of Wales.
Some weather impacts noted:
- Forecasts predict additional rainfall, with some regions potentially receiving over 120 mm (approximately 4.7 inches).
- Authorities warn that torrential rain could lead to more road closures and isolated communities.
Conclusion
Newcastle United’s game against AFC Wimbledon has been delayed because of really bad weather. This shows how extreme weather can mess up even the best plans in sports. Now, everyone is wondering how both teams will deal with this change and if they can find a new date for the match soon. Fans should keep an eye out for news about tickets and possible new dates for the game, while hoping the weather gets better soon.
