THE possible inclusion of 3G pitches into Non-League‘s top competition has taken a step forward after League One and Two voted in favour at the Football League’s Owners’ and Executives’ Conference.
Despite the Championship indicating they would object to them being used in England’s second tier, League One and Two backed synthetic pitches ‘in principle’.
Clubs have asked for more information on synthetic pitches with the matter to be discussed formally later in the year.
Bryn Lee, the Commercial Director at Bonar Yarns who were part of the team behind Rugby club Saracens’ 3G pitch at Allianz Park, said: “The Football League AGM will hopefully mark the start of a new chapter in 3G’s life cycle within football.
“The fact Leagues One and Two have given backing in principle to the surface is huge, not just for those leagues but for Non-League football also. The Football League’s present stance on synthetic has been a major barrier to the Conference accepting 3G. Hopefully now attitudes can begin to change.
“It’s in the lower leagues where 3G can have the most positive impact, both practically and financially. For clubs who struggle with funding, 3G can be an invaluable asset to have. It seems the ghosts of the 1980s are finally being laid to rest and it’s incredibly encouraging to see attitudes to 3G changing and its popularity increasing.”
Synthetic 3G pitches will be allowed in the FA Cup starting from next season but the use of the surfaces in the Conference was vetoed by member clubs.
However with backing from leagues above, the Conference will surely now reassess their stance following the well documented Maidstone United case.
