Rochdale return to Crown Oil Arena as football friendly called off

Rochdale Hornets are due to face Toulouse at the Crown Oil Arena on Saturday, after being forced to move their recent game with Swinton away from the ground.

Delays to pitch renovation work meant the Hornets had to move the Championship game to local amateur side Rochdale Mayfield, which prompted an unhappy response from Lions chairman Andy Mazey.

In a statement, Hornets assured fans that they will be able to go ahead with their game against the French side this weekend.

It said: “After seeking assurances from Denehurst Park (Stadium Comopany) we are pleased to confirm that the game against Toulouse will takes place next Satuarday the 13th July at the Crown Oil Arena with a 3pm KO, and we look forward seeing the Hornets faithful cheer on the team.

“Our last home game against Swinton Lions was due to be played at the Crown Oil Arena however, due to issues with pitch maintenance works the game was moved to Rochdale Mayfield ARLC. We would like to thank everyone who attended the game against Swinton Lions at our local amateur club Rochdale Mayfield for their kind hospitality, it fair to say the match did not disappoint.”

Rochdale football club’s scheduled friendly against Blackburn Rovers on Sunday has been called off following advice from the pitch contractors to avoid two games in two days being played on the pitch.