Puddles on the water logged pitch, after the English Premier League soccer match between Sunderland and Reading at the Stadium of Light, Sunderland, England, was called off, Saturday, Aug. 25, 2012.SCOTT HEPPELL/The Associated Press
Sunderland's Premier League match against Reading was postponed less than 90 minutes before kick-off due to a waterlogged pitch at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.
With heavy rain lashing down on Wearside, referee Neil Swarbrick called off the clash after several pitch inspections.
Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill and Reading chief Brian McDermott also viewed the playing surface and, with no sign of a break in the rain, it is understood Swarbrick's decision had the support of both managers.
"There is no way a game could be played today," McDermott told the BBC. "It is highly unusual a game is called off in August, but it is what it is and we look forward now to [the next game on] Tuesday."