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Gateshead-Aldershot match postponed less than an hour before kick-off

Written by Will Murray
Last Update: April 9, 2024
Published on

The National League match between Gateshead and Aldershot Town was postponed less than an hour before the scheduled kick-off on Tuesday night.

After a pitch inspection, the match referee deemed the pitch unplayable, but Gateshead players were recorded on social media accusing members of the Aldershot squad of ‘not wanting to play’ on social media.

‘Pitch unsafe for play' – Gateshead-Aldershot match postponed

Originally, at 6:04pm, Gateshead posted on X.com “Following a preliminary pitch inspection, the match officials have decided to stage a further inspection at 6:45pm. Options are being explored to give the fixture every chance of being played, including the possibility of delaying kick off.”

However, an hour later, they replied to the original post with the statement, “Despite the best efforts of staff, volunteers, supporters and groundsmen throughout the day, the referee has deemed the pitch unsafe for play and tonight's match has been postponed.” Fans were surprised by the decision, especially given that the Aldershot fans had to make a journey of over 300 miles to travel to the Gateshead International Stadium. It is unclear when the rescheduled match will take place.

Aldershot players accused of ‘not wanting to play’

Over on X.com, Aldershot fan @jackdboswell posted a video of an altercation between Gateshead and Aldershot players shortly after the match had been officially postponed by the referee. He said: “Gateshead official accusing Shots players of ‘not wanting to play’. Which the Shots players deny…”

Jack Boswell also confirmed that the Shots players came over to clap the fans and shake their hands after the referee had made his decision. Tommy Widdrington’s side are 8th in the National League, four points behind Gateshead, who currently occupy a play-off spot.

Aldershot respond on social media

In response to the late postponement by Gateshead, Aldershot posted the following statement on X.com, “Whilst we massively appreciate the hard work from the volunteers and ground staff of Gateshead in trying to improve the condition of the pitch, we are incredibly disappointed with the apparent lack of consideration to our supporters, players and staff surrounding the decision making of events today.

“Having been told of an 18:45 pitch inspection an hour and a half before kick-off, when our supporters long journey to Gateshead had already concluded, we were left awaiting a decision for almost 45 minutes.

“A further update on when the fixture will be rearranged will be communicated in due course.”