First EFL game called off as Met Office issues Storm Goretti weather warning

First EFL postponement confirmed

The first EFL fixture to fall victim to Storm Goretti was called off after pitch inspections found conditions unsafe. Persistent rain and strong winds left the playing surface unplayable, and officials also raised concerns about access for supporters.

More inspections are planned across other venues, with further postponements likely as the storm worsens.

The Met Office had issued a yellow weather warning earlier in the week, predicting widespread rain and wind speeds exceeding 60mph in some areas.

The warning remains in place through Sunday, affecting not just the EFL but also the Scottish leagues and parts of the FA Cup schedule.

Supporters have been urged to check with clubs and travel operators before setting out, as transport routes are also being hit by the severe weather.

Flooding and debris have already led to delays and road closures, and train services are expected to suffer cancellations.

More postponements expected across the UK

Football authorities are keeping a close watch on the situation. The EFL, FA, and Scottish FA are in regular contact with local councils and the Met Office to decide whether further matches need to be called off.

Grounds staff are doing what they can to protect pitches, but many smaller clubs simply don’t have the resources to cope with prolonged flooding.

In Scotland, several lower-league clubs have already warned that their matches may not go ahead, while some FA Cup ties scheduled for Sunday are also under threat, depending on how the weather develops overnight.

With safety the priority, fans are being advised not to travel unless conditions improve. The EFL is expected to provide an updated statement later today outlining which fixtures will go ahead and which will be rescheduled.

With Storm Goretti showing no signs of easing, this weekend could see a wave of postponements across English and Scottish football, a reminder of just how unpredictable the winter fixture list can be when the weather turns.