Stadium fire leaves Burton out of action

BURTON Albion's match with Exeter City has been postponed by the hosts following a fire that damaged areas of St James Park.

- By DAN NEWBOULD

Burton Albion defeated Blackpool in their last League One encounter. Pics: Richard Burley/Epic Action Imagery

(Richard Burley Epic Action Imagery)

The League One game was scheduled for Saturday lunchtime and set to be broadcast live on Sky Sports Plus from 12.30pm but the hosts have revealed that, despite the “extraordinary efforts of club staff, volunteers and local businesses”, they would have been unable to complete the extensive repairs required, or to carry out the essential safety testing needed to ensure all systems are operating safely for both supporters and players.

The postponement comes at a bad time for Burton with momentum high after wins over Bradford and Blackpool which elevated them into the top half of the table however it means they have more than a week's rest before hosting Leyton Orient next weekend before a busy period of Wigan at home and their FA Cup trip to Brackley Town the week after with a chance to rest and recuperate and get more work done on the training pitch.