AFC Wimbledon set to cancel all home matches for 19 days after stadium flooded and pitch left with sinkhole

AFC WIMBLEDON will not play at home for at least another 19 days after severe flooding hit their stadium.

The League Two side were going to face Newcastle in South West London tomorrow in the third round of the Carabao Cup.

Reuters

A huge sinkhole has formed in the corner of the pitch[/caption]

Reuters

The torrential rain has destroyed the surface[/caption]

Outside the ground is also flooded

But a huge downpour overnight saw their pitch destroyed and a sinkhole form in the corner.

An area behind the stands where fans would usually congregate is also completely underwater.

Wimbledon will now play Newcastle at St James’ Park tomorrow night after the EFL granted a venue swap.

But the Dons’ next match at home to Accrington Stanley on Saturday is in danger of becoming postponed.

The club confirmed they are “trying to find a solution – although there is no possibility that this can be at our stadium.”

Should the match be called off, Wimbledon will have two games at Plough Lane to rearrange as they were going to play Crewe tomorrow if not for their progression in the cup.

They are next set to be on their home turf against Carlisle on October 12.

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Discussing the further impacts of the storm, the statement read: “Staff encountered significant flooding of the ground level of the stadium, affecting our offices, the shop and museum, reception areas, lifts, and tunnel area, as well as all concourse areas at ground level.

“This afternoon, several independent contractors have visited the site and conducted surface level investigations.  

“More investigations are required in the coming days in order to plan for repair works to the pitch as a priority, and we are in regular contact with our insurers.

“We have overcome many setbacks by working together and this one will be no different.

“We genuinely appreciate all the messages of support and offers from volunteers and members to help us fix the damage.  

“We ask for some patience whilst we complete our investigations and formulate our plans before getting to work.

“We will advise further what supporters can do to help us soon; thank you.”