Rangers Accuse Dundee Of Negligence Following Match Postponement

Rangers Football Club has formally accused Dundee FC of negligence and unprofessional conduct following the postponement of their cinch Premiership match at Dens Park for the second time. The rescheduled match is now set for Wednesday, April 17, with an 8pm kick-off, after referee Don Robertson declared the pitch unplayable due to waterlogging. This decision came after a second inspection at 3:30 pm on the day of the game. This incident marks the fifth occasion this season that Dundee's pitch has been deemed unsuitable due to weather conditions.

The initial postponement occurred last month, merely 90 minutes before the game was due to start. The repeated cancellations have prompted Rangers to reach out to the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL), urging them to take decisive action. This situation might lead to a delay in announcing the post-split fixtures, as Dundee, Motherwell, and Hibernian vie for the final top-six position. Rangers' statement highlighted the ongoing issue as "deeply embarrassing" and "eminently avoidable," especially considering recent record TV viewing figures for matches in the same competition.

Motherwell manager Stuart Kettlewell has also voiced concerns, stating that their game against Dundee should not have proceeded after a pitch inspection passed it fit for play. Rangers have proposed solutions to the SPFL regarding fixture scheduling and pitch preparation but await a response. The club expressed its disappointment and frustration over the handling of the situation by both Dundee FC and the SPFL, emphasizing the inconvenience caused to approximately 4,000 fans who had anticipated attending the game.

Dundee FC acknowledged the issue with a section of their pitch following heavy rainfall but thanked supporters, staff, and contractors for their efforts in pitch maintenance over the past week. The club remains in contention for a top-six finish and will secure its position if it defeats Aberdeen on Saturday. A draw might also suffice depending on other match outcomes.

SPFL Chief Operating Officer Calum Beattie confirmed that both clubs were informed last month about the possibility of an April 17 rescheduling should another postponement occur. Despite exploring alternative options, none were considered suitable compared to the original contingency plan. Beattie assured that this decision aims to provide the best chance for the fixture to proceed with full spectator attendance while allowing further planning for any unexpected weather deterioration.

The ongoing disciplinary process concerning pitch issues at Dens Park will now include these latest developments as part of its enquiries. As this situation unfolds, both clubs and their supporters await a resolution that will allow this crucial fixture to be played without further disruption.