Sky Bet Football League: Artificial pitches could be approved for league use
Friday 26 September 2014 16:11, UK
Artificial pitches may become a feature of English football again from next season after a majority of lower league chairmen said they would be in favour of their reintroduction.
In a meeting of representatives from Sky Bet League One and Two clubs, 29 out of 48 members voted for a proposed rule change that would mean FIFA 2-star-rated 3G (third generation) surfaces would be acceptable.
Under the proposed change to the current rules, 3G pitches would also be considered suitable for the Capital One Cup and Johnstone's Paint Trophy competitions.
Artificial pitches were banned from the professional game in England 19 years ago after issues were raised over the bounce of the ball and concerns over the threat of increased injuries as a result of teams playing on the surface.
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But the FA ruled in March they can be used in every round of the FA Cup during the current season, with their use set to be extended further.
Clubs from the bottom two divisions will take a formal vote on the proposed return of artificial pitches once the rule changes are drawn up in November.
Earlier this month, Wales won 2-1 on a 3G pitch in their European Qualifier in Andorra, although the away were side were unhappy with the surface.
Wales manager Chris Coleman and Gareth Bale were highly critical of the surface, with the Real Madrid forward describing it as "the worst I have ever played on."
