March 28, 2024

Y Clwb Pêl-droed

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Barry Town United to play the home leg of European qualifier at Leckwith Stadium

Wales Women training session at Leckwith Stadium ahead of tomorrow's international match against New Zealand. Lewis Mitchell/YCPD.

Barry Town United will have to play their Europa League qualifier at Leckwith Stadium it has been revealed.

The playing surface at Jenner Park Stadium failed to pass the FIFA Pro test, which is required for European football.

The venue itself passed the UEFA Stadium inspection, but the rolling of the ball on the pitch rolled 0.8m more than the maximum of 10m. 

This was despite the hard work of club volunteers, the Football Association of Wales and the Vale of Glamorgan Council.

Manager Gavin Chesterfield said: “Naturally, we are all disappointed with this news, but have quickly had to come to terms with it and we move on with our planning.

“The pitch has become a victim of its own success. Without it, our club would not have close to 600 playing members and not be providing fantastic opportunities to children and adults of all abilities and ages, while the local community would not have benefited from it in the way they have.

“However, this usage and a lack of appropriate maintenance has resulted in the pitch standard not being at the necessary grade for European football.

“Of course, it hurts all associated with the club, but we know we will take a huge following to Leckwith Stadium, as this is a game that has been 15 years in the making”.

Barry Town United will know their Europa League opponents next Tuesday when the preliminary round draw takes place. 

(Featured Image: Lewis Mitchell)

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