PORTLAND United chairman Matt Lucas spoke of the Blues’ frustration after the postponement of their Wessex League clash at Christchurch on Saturday.

Portland secretary Randle Gates received a call from the hosts before departure, giving the game the green light.

The Blues left for the Hurn Bridge-based club around three and a half hours before kick-off.

However, with the weather worsening due to Storm Eunice and league officials now involved, a decision to postpone the match was made – after the Blues had arrived.

Portland had incurred costs for coach travel in making the journey but Christchurch did lay on food for the travelling Blues party.

READ MORE: Portland United's ground damaged by Storm Eunice

Priory boss Callum Brooks, who was appointed Dorchester Town boss by Lucas in 2019, also rang his former chairman out of courtesy to explain the circumstances.

There is no suggestion of blame towards Christchurch.

Lucas told Echosport: “It’s fair to say we were at the ground when the decision was made.

“We had a phone call just to say that the pitch at that present moment was playable and they were going to ring the Wessex League for some advice.

“Randle had a call to say the game was on and we left Portland at 25 past 11 as scheduled.

“We got to Christchurch, the officials arrived and the game was swiftly called off as soon as we got off the coach, in effect.”

He added: “It’s always a difficult one. We were surprised to hear the game was potentially going ahead, it has to be said.

“Because we’ve got such a young team we have a coach as well. Quite rightly, it’s the prerogative of the home team to decide the pitch is playable.

“To be fair to Callum, who I know very well, he personally phoned me up when he learnt the game was off and apologised from his perspective.

“He said he was unhappy with it all as well. It was nice Callum rung me to do that.

“It’s frustrating but the bar manager was very helpful and provided some food for travelling players and supporters when they got there.”

Christchurch secretary Katy Gritt responded by saying the elements had taken the decision “out of our hands”.

She said: “Following Storm Eunice a pitch inspection was arranged for Saturday morning ensuring it was done in good time before Portland’s departure and all parties were informed the previous evening.

“The pitch passed the inspection and was found to be fit for play.

“The match day referee and league representatives were contacted for advice regarding the weather forecast all the while keeping in communications with Portland.

“We were instructed to continue with the fixture despite the forecast as the game could not be postponed whilst the pitch was in its current good state and it was agreed that the match day referee would arrive early and reassess the pitch.

“At midday the weather took a turn for the worse and regrettably on Portland’s arrival at 1pm the game was postponed.

“All but three games in the Wessex League fell victim to the weather on Saturday and like Christchurch, four other teams were forced to postpone their games at similar late notice due to the intense downpours we experienced.

“We understand Portland’s frustration, a wasted journey for them is not what we wanted but sadly this was out of our hands.

“The staff at Hurn Bridge Sports Club ensured the players and supporters were well looked after, cooking a hot meal and providing the hospitality that we pride ourselves on.

“We look forward to the rescheduled fixture and to welcome all at Portland back to Hurn Bridge.”

The game will now be fulfilled on Tuesday, March 1 (7.45pm).