Matthew Nicholson

The EFL have released a statement following Saturday's abandonment between Blackburn Rovers & Ipswich Town. The game was called off in the 79th minute due to a waterlogged pitch. The statements says: The EFL Board has today determined that the Sky Bet Championship fixture between Blackburn Rovers and Ipswich Town should be replayed in full following its abandonment on Saturday 20 September. The fixture was abandoned in the 79th minute after the referee had taken the players off the pitch following a sustained period of heavy rainfall, which caused the playing surface to become unplayable. The Board comprehensively considered all options available in accordance with the Regulations alongside representations made by both Clubs. It was ultimately decided by a majority that the fixture should be replayed in full. The decision follows recent precedents relating to abandoned fixtures and is intended to uphold the integrity of the League competition which should, wherever possible, be based on a complete set of fixtures played to a conclusion on the day. Following due consideration, the three Championship Directors abstained from the vote. The Board recognised that this was an incredibly difficult decision and agreed to consult Clubs on the best approach to the development of new guidance to be considered in the event of a match abandonment. A new date for the fixture will be confirmed by the respective Clubs in due course.