Cambridge United versus Bolton Wanderers in Sky Bet League One abandoned after nine minutes due to waterlogged pitch

Cambridge United’s home Sky Bet League One encounter against Bolton Wanderers this evening was abandoned after just nine minutes due to a waterlogged pitch.

Heavy rain fell throughout the warm-ups, during which the match official David Rock addressed one particular area of concern of the pitch with United’s groundstaff.

The game nevertheless got under way, but with the rain getting heavier, standing water quickly started to form, which in turn impacted the roll of the ball.

Rock took the swift the decision to halt proceedings following a discussion with both managers and despite the best efforts of United’s groundsman Ian Darler and his team, further play was deemed impossible following an inspection at 8.10pm.

“From our perspective we wanted the game to be played,” said U’s head coach Neil Harris. “We thought the weather conditions fell in our favour here at the Abbey against a really, really good football side.

“Obviously Ian (Evatt, Bolton manager) went the other way and was pleased the game was called off because it didn’t suit his style of play. We were fine, we were laughing about it (and it was) amicable.

“I understand the referee’s and EFL’s decision, I’ve got no complaints about it. I just think it’s unfortunate and it had all the makings of a good game.”

The fixture will be replayed in full at a later date.