CHERRIES’ clash at Crewe was today postponed as the sporting schedule was decimated by rain.

The League One match was officially called off just after noon following a second pitch inspection.

Despite the surface being initially checked at 11am, referee Lee Collins needed another look before making a decision.

The pitch was then deemed unplayable “due to excessive water on the playing surface in key areas of the pitch” according to the official Crewe Alexandra website.

The Cherries wash out completed a miserable day for the area’s sports clubs.

Local rugby and football also fell victim after an amber weather warning had been issued by the Met Office for today, tomorrow and Monday, with potential for up to 70mm of rain to fall before Christmas.

Bournemouth Lions got the ball rolling when their home National Two South clash against Worthing was the first to be called off.

Non-league football games quickly followed suit, with none managing to beat the heavy downpours.

Football postponements: Crewe v Cherries, Bashley v Cambridge City, Clevedon Town v Poole Town, Wimborne Town v Shortwood United, Alton Town v Hamworthy United, Christchurch v Horndean, New Milton Town v Hayling United, Downton v Verwood Town, Brockenhurst v Ringwood Town.

  • Every match in the Dorset Premier League was postponed.

Rugby postponements: Bournemouth v Worthing, Wimborne v Buckingham.