Cambridge United’s Sky Bet League One clash at Stevenage called off due to floodlight failure

Cambridge United’s trip to Stevenage has been postponed because of floodlight failure.

Warm-ups for the 7.45pm Sky Bet League One encounter had got under way, only for the Lamex Stadium to fall dark shortly after 7pm.

Hosting Stevenage then posted on their social media channels that an engineer was on-site to assess the problem, with suggestions that the game could potentially get started at the later time of 8.15pm.

However, at around 8.10pm, U’s head coach Neil Harris and his players came out of the dressing room to applaud the travelling fans – with many more still left stranded outside – and soon after confirmation followed that the fixture had been postponed.

A message on Stevenage’s X feed read: “Unfortunately, tonight’s game has been cancelled due to circumstances outside of our control. If you’re inside the stadium, please exit carefully due to congestion & lack of lighting outside. More details to follow.”

United’s media team also posted, saying: “Frustrating night. Thanks to everyone who travelled and safe journeys home.”

And shortly before 8.45pm – an hour after the original kick off time – Stevenage revealed that the problems had been caused by a power cut in the local area.

A statement from UK Power Networks read: “We are investigating reports of a power cut and more information will appear here shortly, so keep checking for updates. We are sorry for any disruption this may be causing you.”

Tickets purchased for the game will remain valid for the as yet unconfirmed rearranged date, with Stevenage also planning to release details on refunds shortly.

The U’s will next be in action on New Year’s Day when Leyton Orient will be the visitors to the Abbey Stadium.