Waterlogged Bloomfield Road pitch leaves Doncaster Rovers frustrated as match called off

The Rovers squad arrived at Blackpool only to be told a pitch inspection would be taking place at 6pm.

With the playing surface already sodden following heavy rains, and the downpour forecasted to continue until 10pm at the earliest, the decision was taken to call-off the fixture, which will be rescheduled.

Referee Robert Lewis said: “The rain has come down heavily in the last couple of hours and unfortunately it has taken its toll on the field of play.

“Currently as we stand here at the moment, with the rain coming down, the pitch is unplayable. There is then the risk of more rain coming through for the rest of the evening, looking at the forecasts.

“My primary concern is the safety of the players and there is also a situation where the integrity of the game is affected by the ball not moving in its natural way.

Ellen White struck a hat-trick as England Women marked Hege Riise’s first game in temporary charge with a 6-0 demolition of Northern Ireland in a behind-closed-doors friendly at St George’s Park.

White struck twice in the first half in clinical fashion before completing her treble in the 48th minute, taking her international tally to 37 goals.

Lucy Bronze, Rachel Daly and Ella Toone also netted.

“I think the performance was excellent. It looked fun,” said Riise.

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