Club questions decision to call off match

DERGVIEW'S Premier Intermediate League (PL) game at the weekend was called off in a move which has been questioned by the club.

Andy Sproule's men were due to face Lisburn Distilery at Darragh Park on Saturday afternoon, but the game was cancelled after the referee deemed the pitch unplayable.

It's understood the pitch passed an early morning pitch inspection, before a further inspection around an hour before kick-off was conducted, resulting in the game being played off.

By the time the decision had been made, players and officials had arrived at the north Tyrone venue, with the visiting team's supporters also enroute.

In a statement following the decision, a Dergview spokesperson expressed frustration.

They said: "Despite a pitch inspection taking place this morning, today’s fixture has been called off by the match officials, who deemed the surface unplayable.

"What is particularly disappointing is that our request for an inspection - standard and long-standing practice at this club to prevent unnecessary travel for visiting teams - has been cited as a factor in reinforcing that decision.

"To be clear: Requesting an inspection is about respect, transparency, and fairness to travelling teams.

“Pitch was clearly playable.

"This decision is hugely disappointing and deeply controversial.

"Supporters, players, volunteers, and staff will rightly feel frustrated. We share that frustration.

"We will reflect, but today’s call is one that leaves serious questions unanswered."

The Northern Ireland Football League (NIFL) was asked to respond.

A statement said: "The NI Football League confirm that on inspection by the match referee the pitch at Darragh Park was deemed unplayable due to concerns for player safety."

Dergiew currently sit sixth in the league on 13 points, five points adrift of leaders Moyola Park on 18 points, with two games in hand.

They now have three games in hand over second placed Ballyclare Comrades who also have 18 points.