Referee Gary Sutton said he did not want to gamble on player safety after he postponed Colchester United's home game with Shrewsbury Town tonight.

The League One clash was called off after the Weston Homes Community Stadium pitch was deemed unplayable, following a second pitch inspection at 3.30pm. Sutton said: “I asked for honest feedback from the two managers and I gave them my opinion.

“Basically, we all had the same opinion that we didn’t want to gamble on someone’s safety and career by tossing a coin and hoping it doesn’t rain again.

“I think the conditions as they are are enough to turn around and say that the game should be postponed.

“It’s a game of football and it’s an entertainment business as well - we have to provide something that’s worth watching and not farcical."

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