The rearranged Hornets-Oldham Law Cup derby clash tomorrow (Wed) night has been switched from Spotland to amateur club Mayfield's ground at Castleton, kick-off 7.30pm.

 

Roughyeds apologise to fans for any inconvenience caused by the late change of venue, but point out that it was a decision made at the Rochdale end after they had initially confirmed their intention to put the game on at Spotland.

 

It would appear that when Sunday's match was called off due to waterlogging in one corner of the Spotland pitch, Hornets firmed up their plans to try again three days later at the same venue without first obtaining the approval of the Stadium Company and its groundstaff.

 

Oldham were stunned yesterday when Hornets made contact to say a Wednesday game at Spotland was a no-goer after all, but Roughyeds did agree to play at Mayfield instead rather than lose the fixture altogether.

 

Apparently, the Spotland authorities had intervened to say the ground might not stand up to a Rochdale AFC soccer match tonight; the Law Cup game tomorrow; the Hornets opening Northern Rail Cup game against York City Knights on Sunday; and another big game for table-topping Rochdale FC, to be televised by Sky Sports, on Monday.

 

The Mayfield ground, tight and compact with cover, seats and standing areas -- as well as a bar and concert room --- will generate a lively atmosphere given the size of crowd that would normally watch a Hornets-Oldham derby with silverware at stake.

 

Roughyeds fans will recall that, in the new club's early years, the players used to train at the Castleton venue and play academy and reserve team games there when it was used principally by soccer club Castleton Gabriels.

 

Admission prices on Wednesday remain the same, £10 adults and £5 concessions.