The pitch at Annagh's BMG Arena was completely flooded
Annagh United's facilities were badly hit by recent flooding
Annagh United's ground following the flooding (Photo by Annagh United)
Annagh United have launched an emotional appeal to footballing organisations in Northern Ireland to help save the club after they were left stranded by the recent flooding, which decimated their BMG Arena home.
The Co Armagh side were devastated to discover their stadium underwater after the River Bann, which runs past the ground, burst its banks on Wednesday.
As well as hosting the Northern Ireland Football League (NIFL) Championship club’s first team, the Portadown pitch is also used by hundreds of children who train and play there, as well as other local clubs that frequently rent it.
Annagh manager Ciaran McGurgan told the Belfast Telegraph earlier in the week that, while the club have flood cover for the pitch, the damage will significantly set them back, with Portakabins used for changing also badly damaged.
And in a statement released after an extraordinary club meeting on Wednesday night, the Championship outfit have revealed that they have a plan to return to their home but will need external help if they are to continue in their current guise.
"We now have a plan in place to return to the BMG Arena, following numerous meetings with insurers, specialist sub-contractors Haffey Sports Grounds and club members we have agreed the priority is to return to using the pitch as quickly as possible,” read the statement.
"Unfortunately, our insurance cover will not replace the 3G surface, leaving us to progress for now with a temporary fix. Thanks to the prompt response from Jack and the team at Haffey Sports Grounds, this work will start
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