Rochdale say postponed York game should be re-arranged

Rochdale have dismissed claims that York should be awarded the two points following their postponed game in the Betfred Championship on Sunday.

The kick-off was initially delayed before eventually being called off completely due to high winds and safety concerns.

That prompted a statement from York which said they expected to be awarded the two points due to the situation, which was clouded in controversy and poor communication.

But in a statement, Rochdale have moved to clarify the situation and defend their corner.

It said: “The game was cancelled due to legitimate safety concerns at the Crown Oil Arena raised by stadium ground staff. High winds meant it was dangerous to remove the protective dome, and erect the rugby posts.

“An unsuccessful attempt was made to erect the posts at the Sandy Lane end of the ground and as time moved on, a decision was made by the head groundsman, in conjunction with the ground safety officer that the game would need to be cancelled.

“As a club, we extend our sincere apologies to all supporters who arrived to support their teams in what should have been an afternoon of quality rugby league, in particular the large number of York City Knights fans.

“Although the club were not made aware of the safety concerns until early afternoon, we apologise unreservedly to all supporters, particularly those who travelled significant distances for a lack of communication and our inability to convey the potential risk to the game.

“The club have already submitted reports to the RFL operational department (Monday, March 11) and will continue to assist them with their investigation into the circumstances around Sunday’s cancellation.

“We do, however, strongly disagree that the match points should be awarded to York City Knights.

“Rochdale Hornets believe the correct course of action would be to rearrange the game. Two points should always be won or lost over the course of 80 minutes, and we believe there is sufficient time remaining in the season to work together and play the game that the supporters were excited to be a part of.

“Finally, Rochdale Hornets will continue to work closely with the stadium management company to ensure we never have a repeat of Sunday and positive discussions have already begun.”

It is the second time this season that Rochdale have had a game postponed, with their season opener at home to Dewsbury also falling foul of the weather.