Champions Cup blockbuster snowed in
The much-anticipated European Champions Cup match between Saracens and Clermont was postponed Sunday because of poor weather.
It was announced on Monday morning (AEDT) that the match would be moved to 5:30pm Monday, local time, but played behind closed doors due to concerns over spectator safety in heavy snowfall.
European Professional Club Rugby, the administrative body that runs the Champions Cup, released a statement on Monday (AEDT), detailing the decision, with the match still to be broadcast on BT Sport.
"With continuing adverse weather conditions expected in the vicinity of the stadium, it has been decided that due to health and safety concerns, the Pool 2 match will be played behind closed doors and no spectators will be permitted to attend," the statement read.
"Only necessary staff and accredited working media will have access to the venue.
"EPCR would like to thank all match ticket holders for their understanding."
The clash, which pitted the top two sides in Pool two against each other, is a repeat of last year's final, in which Saracens triumphed over the French club 28-17 at Murrayfield in May to retain their European crown.
❄️ ⛄️ https://t.co/2BKMLn1Vow
— Saracens Rugby Club (@Saracens) December 10, 2017
Saracens earlier posted a video on Twitter of the conditions at their ground, confirming the postponement.
"Saracens can confirm that their round three European Rugby Champions Cup fixture versus ASM Clermont Auvergne has been called-off due to the adverse weather conditions surrounding Allianz Park," the English club announced.
"The club is currently liaising directly with EPCR regarding further details and fans are advised not to travel to Allianz Park."
Other Champions Cup matches did go on in London, despite the heavy snowfall, with Harlequins taking on Ulster in a snow-covered pitch at Twickenham Stoop.
Parts of Britain have been hit by heavy snow and high winds, with flights, train and road travel all expected to be severely disrupted.
