Unsafe playing surface sees A-League fixture relocated from Campbelltown Stadium

Leaked images showing the poor state of the playing surface at Western Sydney’s Campbelltown Stadium have led to the Macarthur Bulls FC being forced to relocate their A-Leagues Mens’ opening round home fixture just 48 hours before kick off.

Despite the Stadium’s last event being more than five months ago, images have revealed its playing pitch to be uneven and littered with bare patches, forcing Sunday’s game to be relocated to McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle.

In a statement on its website, Macarthur FC said the Campbelltown City Council had not informed the club of any renovation issues, and in particular of its extremely late decision to relay portions of the pitch with turf early this week.

The club only became aware of the poor pitch at 8am on Friday, with the squad scheduled to train at the venue that day.

Following a pitch inspection by the Bulls and A-Leagues officials along with turf contractors and representatives of the Council, it agreed that the pitch was not suitable for the fixture.

The Council-managed venue was already being readied for Sunday's fixture, with the LED ground signage partially set-up for the game.

Macarthur’s opening home game against Wellington Phoenix will now be played in Newcastle as part of a double-header following the Jets’ opener.

The club had discussed a number of alternatives with the A-Leagues, including local NPL venues. However, due to the non-availability of these venues and the logistics around TV broadcasting, police, security and catering, the club said there was no other feasible alternative other than to play a double header 200 kilometres away in Newcastle.

In a statement released today, the Council blamed the colossal mistake on “several factors”, advising “we sincerely apologise to local fans for the need to relocate tomorrow’s game

“Due to several factors, grass laid in preparation for the summer and the 2021/22 A-Leagues Men season failed to take in time for the first match.

“The low temperatures and high rainfall experienced over spring have impacted growing conditions.

“We understand how disappointing this situation is for Macarthur FC and will work with the club and our turf contractor to improve the quality and appearance of the surface.”

Campbelltown Stadium is managed by Campbelltown CityCouncil, which has been contacted for comment.

Those who purchased tickets for tomorrow’ Campbelltown fixture will be contacted by Ticketek for a refund.

Images from yesterday showing the state of the playing surface at Campbelltown Stadium in Western Sydney.