Rain scuppers Fleet at Hayes & Yeading (From News Shopper)

Hayes & Yeading A-A Ebbsfleet United

5:02pm Tuesday 3rd January 2012 in News and Reports By David Byrom

IT was a frustrating start to 2012 for Ebbsfleet United after their New Year’s Day visit to Hayes & Yeading United was abandoned in the 21st minute.

A sustained downpour of rain which began prior to kick-off showed no signs of relenting, leaving referee Rob Whitton with little choice but to call an early halt to proceedings with the Fleet leading 1-0.

The only goal was scored in the sixth minute when Michael West floated a brilliant free-kick over home keeper Carl Pentney from the edge of the area.

Following a number of strong tackles, the referee lectured the players about the potentially dangerous conditions.

Hayes striker Corey Gamerio did not heed his warning and was rightly sent off for a reckless challenge on Craig Stone.

Shortly after the 15-minute mark, Whitton spoke to both captains and coaching staff about a potential abandonment.

But the action continued for six more minutes until the inevitable happened and the referee blew the final whistle to halt proceedings.

The Fleet are without a game this weekend but return to action on January 14 when they host Chester in the FA Trophy.

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Ebbsfleet United: Edwards, Stone, Lorraine, Mambo, Howe, Marwa, Barrett, Phipp, West, Pinney, Willock Subs not used: Welch, Simpemba, Fakinos, Shakes, Darvill