Overnight frost put Magpies' Christmas on ice

Last updated : 26 December 2004 By Richard Brown

The match, scheduled to kick off at 3pm today, was subject to referee inspection earlier today and, at around noon, it was announced that the pitch was deemed unplayable.

Large areas of the pitch at the ‘Lane were today said to be frozen after heavy frost hit hard in the more shaded areas of the Meadow Lane pitch – notably in front of the Derek Pavis Stand.

It is also rumoured that the ice that formed on the steps of the stadium made the ground something of a health hazard for supporters. In any case, the match will not be taking place today.

No dates of a re-schedule have been arranged.