The blaze is being fought off by local fire crews in the area
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Southampton's EFL Championship game against Preston North End scheduled for this evening has been postponed due to a nearby fire.
The blaze began at the old Greenhams building in Hampshire, with it thought 100 firefighters are still on the scene trying to contain the ongoing flames.
According to the BBC, one person has been treated for smoke inhalation but there are believed to be no serious injuries at this moment in time.
BREAKING: Championship game between Southampton and Preston postponed after huge fire breaks out next to St Mary's Stadiumhttps://t.co/q0YnRphyyp📺 Sky 501 and YouTube pic.twitter.com/q4q4SN3CD9March 6, 2024
The Saints recently saw their 25-match unbeaten streak in the Championship come to an end at the hands of Bristol City, losing 3-1 at Ashton Gate.
Bidding to chase down the lead pack in Leicester City, Leeds United and Ipswich Town, tonight's game, however, will no longer take place, confirmed earlier today by an EFL statement.
“The EFL can confirm that tonight’s Sky Bet Championship fixture between Southampton and Preston North End has been postponed as a result of health and safety concerns following a fire nearby St Mary’s Stadium.
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“The League will liaise with both Clubs to determine a suitable date to reschedule the fixture, with details to be confirmed in due course.”
The EFL confirmed Southampton's game with Preston has been postponed. (Image credit: Puma)
Further context was provided by Southampton FC via their official channels, as they added: "The decision was made after consultation with the local authorities and emergency services after a major fire broke out in a building next to the St Mary’s Stadium site earlier today.
"The incident has caused significant disruption in the area with road closures around the stadium still in place as fire crews continue to deal with the situation.
"We are grateful for the cooperation of Preston and the EFL, and while we appreciate the disappointment fans may feel, we hope they will understand the need to put the safety of supporters and staff of both clubs first.
"The game will be postponed to a new date, which will be announced in due course, and all tickets for tonight’s match will be valid for the rearranged fixture."
Bio: Matthew is a freelance journalist and has currently racked up bylines for Manchester United, Manchester Evening News, GOAL and SPORTbible to name a few. A long-term sufferer of Scunthorpe United, he currently resides in the north-west after escaping the smog of North Lincolnshire.
