Big freeze sees games across Europe postponed
Two Bundesliga matches have been scrapped because of large amounts of snow and ice blanketing pitches across Germany, while a third-round FA Cup match has also been postponed because of freezing conditions in England.
The matches between St Pauli and RB Leipzig and Werder Bremen against Hoffenheim were postponed because of the weather conditions.
Germany has been hit by heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures in recent days with more expected over the weekend, while the United Kingdom has been plunged into a deep freeze by Storm Goretti.
The stadium operator of St Pauli's Millerntor Stadium closed the venue after consulting with local authorities, a statement from the Bundesliga read.
"This is due to the large amount of snow and ice across the entire stadium grounds and the associated safety risks for everyone involved on match day, as well as the critical overall situation in Hamburg. A new date for the match will be announced shortly," a club statement read.
It was a similar case in Bremen.
There have been concerns that other matches, including Union Berlin against Mainz 05, could also be adversely affected by the weather as the Bundesliga season restarts this weekend after a three-week winter break.
Salford City's third-round FA Cup tie at home to Swindon Town was postponed because of freezing conditions.
"Sheets have remained on the pitch over the last couple of weeks in anticipation of the forecasted sub-zero temperatures, and heat lamps have been moved around the pitch throughout the week to try and help thaw the pitch out," a Salford City statement read.
"However despite the best efforts of the ground staff there are still parts of the pitch that are frozen, and the decision has been made early in conjunction with the FA and Swindon to prevent unnecessary disruption to travelling supporters."
Three EFL League Two matches, at Oldham Athletic, Chesterfield and Accrington Stanley, have also been postponed.
