The National League match between Barrow and Forest Green Rovers was abandoned after just 14 minutes due to adverse weather conditions. The pitch at the Furness Building Society Stadium became waterlogged as a result of Storm Boelo, prompting referee Stuart Morland to call the game off.
Referee's Decision and Club Statement
Barrow, who were pushing for a play-off spot in the league table, released a statement on their website confirming the abandonment. The statement read: "Barrow AFC can confirm that this afternoon's Enterprise National League fixture against Forest Green Rovers was abandoned in the 14th minute due to adverse weather conditions at the Furness Building Society Stadium."
The statement continued: "The match referee conducted hourly pre-match pitch inspections and deemed the playing surface suitable for the fixture to begin. However, with conditions deteriorating following kick-off, the referee subsequently made the decision to abandon the match."
Ground Staff Efforts and Replay Details
Barrow acknowledged the efforts of their ground staff in trying to ensure the fixture could go ahead. The statement added: "The club made every possible effort to ensure the fixture could go ahead, with our ground staff working tirelessly to prepare the pitch and give the game the best possible chance of being played."
The club also thanked supporters: "We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to our ground staff for their considerable efforts, alongside the supporters of both clubs who braved the conditions to attend this afternoon's fixture."
Despite Barrow leading 1-0 at the time of the abandonment, with Isaac Marriott scoring after just two minutes, the fixture will now need to be replayed in its entirety, starting again at 0-0. A new date for the rearranged fixture, alongside all relevant match and ticketing information, will be communicated in due course.
Travel and League Standings
The match was a 150-mile journey for Forest Green, who play in Nailsworth. After the abandonment, the Forest Green X account posted: "We understand this is very frustrating for the FGR supporters who have travelled to Barrow today. We wish you all safe travels back home."
Barrow remain 10th in the league table and will play Halifax Town on Tuesday night. Forest Green are down in 17th, with just four wins from the opening 12 matches this season.
