Without raking over the sad history of recent years it was obvious that the pitch had serious problems and after a series of postponements the SPL sanctioned Motherwell FC a year ago for a breach of rule relating to the playing surface. We were fined £20 000 but that was suspended pending the undertaking that pitch improvements would be made before the start of the current season.
August 2009
Following the final game of last season the huge and costly (£350 000 according to the club) new pitch was constructed. Excavation, increased drainage, import of sub-soil and root zone, new undersoil heating system and the spreading of seed all took place in May/June in perfect warn sunny weather. Greentech were the main contractors and by the end of their work everyone was delighted with the transformation.
A new irrigation system was introduced and new cutting equipment and germination covers were bought. The club did not cut corners.
It is important to note that the SPL were made fully aware of the works. They employed and independent expert (from Professional Sportsturf Design) to monitor the new pitch and ensure that it was up to the mark. His report to the SPL was that the work met the required standard. The decision to use seed rather than turf was taken to provide the best long term prospect for the surface and it was understood, by both the club and the SPL that a bad winter might cause problems.
The pitch looked perfect in late summer and into the autumn but the brutal winter chill could not have come at a worse time to a young pitch which had yet to develop under ground. The prolonged spell under snow and covers with the sub-soil heating drying out the roots could have been designed to kill off all the good work undertaken over the summer.
The result is there for all to see. A weak, soft surface which cuts up easily. The pitch has been passed as fit by every SFA referee and no concerns about player safety were raised. Those of us who have seen the pitches at Aberdeen, Hibs, Kilmarnock, Falkirk and St Johnstone in recent weeks will know that they are suffering too. Only the maturity of their pitch has saved them from the problems that are faced in Motherwell.
The latest rumblings from SPL Towers lean more towards sabre rattling than a threat to the club. They were kept fully informed of pitch developments and their inspector is aware that the club did all that was possible to deliver a decent surface. In a few weeks (with any luck!) the grass will begin to grow and Fir Park should be able to face the rigours to come next winter with ease.