First it was rabbits, then key injuries and now the weather is thwarting Waterloo Rovers in their bid to mount a serious challenge on the Spar Mid Wales League this season.
The Welshpool club started the term in high spirits after winning the Central Wales Cup last season and enjoyed a strong pre-season which positioned them as one of the favourites for the Division One title.
But the much-publicised damage to their council-owned pitch by rabbits causing injuries to key players resulted in inconsistent form. And just as Dave Proctor’s outfit was starting to piece some form together – with three wins in four games - the weather turned against them.
“It has definitely come too soon for us,” said the experienced boss. “We were putting together a decent run and starting to play the type of football I know we are capable of. But we haven’t played for two weeks and I can’t see us playing this weekend either. I’ve even booked the Flash indoor on Saturday afternoon already.”
Proctor highlighted another issue that could affect a number of clubs once the thaw allows play to resume.
“The lads are fed up and some have taken the opportunity to work now on a Saturday afternoon which they might get used to,” said Proctor. “We’ve not even been able to train.”
Proctor said his opinion on changing the season to incorporate more summer months was starting to thaw having once never even given the suggestions a second thought.
“You have to look at it these days,” he said. “It has only really got worse this last couple of seasons but perhaps it has to be considered.”
Waterloo Rovers are due to play Builth Wells this Saturday.