Preston North End’s game with Southampton, scheduled to go ahead on Wednesday evening, has been postponed.
North End have made the long trip down to the South Coast but there will be no action at St Mary’s Stadium.
A fire broke out at the Central Industrial Estate on Marine Parade this afternoon, mere yards from Southampton’s home stadium.
Smoke has engulfed the area and with just hours to go until kick-off, the decision to postpone the game has unsurprisingly been taken.
Health and safety concerns are simply too great and with major disruption on the roads, the fixture will now be re-scheduled.
Southampton’s statement reads: “The decision was made after consultation with the local authorities and emergency services after a major fire broke out in a building next to the St Mary’s Stadium site earlier today.”
“The incident has caused significant disruption in the area with road closures around the stadium still in place as fire crews continue to deal with the situation. We are grateful for the cooperation of Preston and the EFL, and while we appreciate the disappointment fans may feel, we hope they will understand the need to put the safety of supporters and staff of both clubs first.”
The Championship season is approaching its final stretch now, so there aren’t too many dates left in the calendar for this game to be rearranged.
April seems to be the best bet, putting a game somewhere between the 13th and 20th, or 20th and 27th.
The clubs will come together to figure out a new date for this game and tickets purchased will still be accepted for the rearranged fixture.
Our thoughts are with those affected down in Southampton and hope that all in the area remain safe.
We also have to say a word for the PNE fans, who have made their way down to Southampton in the hope of seeing some football.
That should not be sniffed at, especially on a Wednesday night, and we hope those travelling North Enders are able to get home safely.