EFL game postponed for second time as statement released

Portsmouth have released a statement to confirm that their match tonight against Ipswich Town has been postponed.

This is the second time the Championship fixture has had to be moved, following a rescheduled in January due to a frozen pitch.

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Now, the game has been postponed again due to a waterlogged pitch at Fratton Park, just six hours before the match.

Their statement read: “Pompey‘s clash with Ipswich has been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.”

“This is after persistent overnight rain, continuing into the morning and forecast to last until close to kick-off, has fallen on already saturated ground.”

Ipswich have also released a statement on the postponement, explaining how the decision to call the game off occurred.

They wrote: “The decision was made following an agreement between the two clubs this morning, along with the EFL, with the Fratton Park pitch unplayable. 

“The club pushed the EFL for a decision to be made as early as possible in order to give fans clarity regarding travel for this evening’s fixture.

“This was especially important given the events of last month, when the original staging was called off at late notice due to a frozen pitch, with supporters already en route to Portsmouth. 

“Following these conversations, a decision has been made to postpone the game. 

“Further details regarding a rearranged date will be communicated in due course.”

As mentioned, there has been no news of a second new date for Ipswich and Portsmouth to face off as of yet.

‘Are you serious?’

Fans have been reacting to the news of the game being called off for a second time on social media.

One Pompey fan wrote: “We’re never playing Ipswich are we?”

Another annoyed supporter said: “No, are you serious?!”

“You’ve got to be joking!” a third fan asked after the news.

Meanwhile, some angry Ipswich fans have called for action to be taken against Portsmouth, saying: “This is not acceptable in the second tier of English football.”

A second Tractor Boys fan said: “Surely this means Pompey have to forfeit and we get the 3 points?”

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Postponement controversy

Ahead of the rescheduled game, there was already some controversy around the postponement in January.

Portsmouth have welcomed back key players from injury and welcomed some new arrivals since the first fixture date.

And Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna was asked how he felt about having to come up against a stronger side.

McKenna said: “I could cry about it and say a few things, but it’s not going to make any benefit.”

He might be having some words about it now though, after the game was called off for a second time…