Flooding caused by the latest storm, Chandra, could lead to further disruption across non-league football in the Bournemouth area this weekend, with several fixtures under threat due to waterlogged pitches.
Heavy rainfall over recent days has left standing water on playing surfaces and surrounding areas, raising concerns for clubs across Dorset and Hampshire ahead of Saturday’s scheduled matches.
For teams operating outside the professional leagues, where drainage systems are often limited and facilities largely run by volunteers, even moderate flooding can have a major impact.
Bashley and Verwood Town are among the sides monitoring conditions closely, with pitch inspections expected to determine whether fixtures can go ahead as planned.
Other clubs in the region, including Christchurch and Brockenhurst, have already faced disruption in recent weeks due to extreme weather, highlighting the ongoing challenge for non-league sides balancing tight schedules with unpredictable conditions.
One fixture already facing particular uncertainty is New Milton Town’s clash with Bournemouth Poppies, which had previously been rearranged due to adverse weather earlier in the season.
New Milton’s under-23s were expected to play on their pitch last night, but ongoing weather issues forced that game to be called off, meaning the squad has now experienced two consecutive postponements.
Should the first-team fixture versus Poppies be postponed again, it would mark the second time weather-related issues have forced a rescheduling.
New Milton manager Jamie Kay admitted the club is eager to play, but the forecast may have the final say.
Kay said: “I’d like the game to be on, but judging by the weather, it probably won’t be.”
Verwood Town manager Ricky Barton, whose side is also monitoring conditions, suggested optimism for his club’s game.
He said: “I think given that they played a game on it last night, I’d be surprised if it’s called off.”
The situation underscores the wider difficulties faced by non-league clubs during periods of extreme weather.
Unlike professional teams, many sides operate with limited budgets, relying heavily on volunteers to maintain pitches and facilities.
When rain persists, waterlogged grounds can halt play for days, delaying fixtures and putting added pressure on squad rotation and fitness.
Several clubs have already experienced multiple postponements this season, creating fixture congestion that could affect performances and planning later in the campaign.
Beyond the sporting impact, postponements can carry financial consequences, with lost gate receipts and increased costs for rearranging matches placing further strain on smaller clubs.
Officials at Bashley, Verwood Town, and other non-league sides are expected to conduct detailed pitch inspections closer to kick-off, with player and official safety remaining the top priority.
Local authorities have issued warnings about surface water flooding across parts of Dorset, affecting roads, parks, and open spaces, factors that could complicate matchday logistics for fans travelling to games.
Despite the challenges, many clubs remain hopeful that conditions may improve or that drainage systems will hold up better than expected, potentially allowing games to go ahead.
Fans are being advised to check club channels and league communications for updates before travelling.
Further confirmation on affected fixtures is expected later in the week as inspections are completed.
Storm Chandra’s heavy rainfall serves as a reminder of how vulnerable grassroots football can be to extreme weather, with clubs, players, and supporters alike needing to adapt quickly when the elements intervene.
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