Game ON After Pitch Inspection

Last updated : 04 January 2003 By Rob Cooper
Plastic covers had been placed over the playing surface overnight in order to protect the fragile playing surface from slipping into the unplayable category.

Referee Keith Hill called a pitch inspection for 10am this morning and after analysing the turf declared that the game will go ahead as planned, kicking off at 3pm this afternoon.

Yesterday groundstaff at the Bescot Stadium worked around the clock in an attempt to get the pitch ready for today's game, working tirelessly to clear the pitch of excess surface water.

Reading will be hoping for a repeat of their 2-0 win over the Saddlers back in August. A win will put the Royals into the pot for the Fourth Round, giving them the chance to draw one of the top Premiership sides.

After Wednesday's disappointing abandonment at the Madejski Stadium the Royals will be hoping they don't fail to complete a match twice in a week.

For live coverage of this afternoon's game stick with Reading Mad. For all the latest click to http://footymad.sportbox.tv