EFL ‘extremely disappointed’ by late call to postpone Bournemouth-Forest clash

The English Football League has criticised the decision to postpone the Sky Bet Championship game between Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest just a few hours before kick-off.

Friday’s meeting between the two promotion-chasing teams joined the growing number of sporting fixtures to be postponed as Storm Eunice hits the UK.

An EFL spokesperson said: “The decision to postpone AFC Bournemouth v Nottingham Forest was reached on Friday afternoon following a recommendation by the local Safety Advisory Group (SAG) after the Vitality Stadium sustained damage as a result of the developing weather conditions.

“The EFL has been informed that the impact of the storm means the issues cannot be rectified ahead of the scheduled kick-off or at a rearranged time on Saturday.

“Earlier in the day it had been communicated to the League that they had hoped the fixture would take place and both clubs and Sky Sports were making their preparations.

“We are extremely disappointed that the decision has been left so late in the day and, whilst we acknowledge safety is the number one priority, consideration in these circumstances must be given to all stakeholders in plenty of time, including the travelling supporters who have braved today’s conditions to go and support their team.”

A statement on the Bournemouth website read: “Structural engineers have carried out an inspection of the stadium and have confirmed that the damage could pose a significant risk to supporters’ safety.

“The ongoing impact of the storm means the damage cannot be repaired in time either to fulfil the fixture on Friday, or at a rearranged time on Saturday.

“The postponement was recommended by the club’s Safety Advisory Group.

“The club apologises for the inconvenience caused