Blackpool has been told to move their opening game due to not being able to give a 100% reassurance that their East Stand will be completed in time for the game. This means Wigan Athletic will have their first game at home for only the second time since entering the Premier League.
Bosses at the Premier League and FA made the decision for Blackpool as no answer was forthcoming about the situation with their ground development. So the opening game will take place at the DW Stadium with the away game switching to April 16th 2011.
The game will now be played at the DW Stadium and it has yet to be seen whether or not the need for the Rugby game that is supposed to take place on the night before will have to be moved or not.
“This is the only Blackpool fixture that will be affected,” said a Premier League statement. This decision will give both clubs and fans maximum time to plan accordingly.”
Blackpool won the Championship play-off against Cardiff last season to earn promotion and their first season in the top-flight since 1971, despite asking for an away game to start their campaign, they were drawn to play Wigan at home.
However, the Premier League has decided to switch the fixture as work continues on improving Bloomfield Road and getting its capacity up to 17,600. The board felt it was important to take this decision as early as possible if there was any potential for Blackpool FC’s stadium not being ready for the first match of the season,” said the Premier League statement.
“The board would like to put on record its thanks to both Wigan Athletic FC and Wigan RL whose flexibility in the circumstances has been extremely helpful.”
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