The unprecedented winter weather has led to the postponement of the first leg games in both Carling Cup semi-finals this week. Aston Villa were due to travel north to Ewood Park for Tuesday’s tie whilst the Manchester derby at Eastlands has also fallen victim to the freezing conditions gripping most of the country. The pitches at both grounds were playable but, as is frequently the case, the ground and approaches have been deemed too dangerous for supporters.

 

The ties are to be rearranged with the Manchester City / United clash now being played on 19^th January, the second leg a week later on 27^th. The Blackburn / Villa ties will be rearranged shortly. However, with the bad weather expected to continue towards the weekend, there is the danger that Premier League fixtures could also be lost which would start to represent a real concern for Sir Alex Ferguson as his team continues to fight on the triple fronts of league, Carling Cup and Champions League. There may be a silver lining on the cloud left by Leeds United over Old Trafford after all.

It is ironic that after the millions spent on stadiums and quality pitches over the past years, matches are still being lost due to the surrounding area being unsafe for fans.