Update: Crown Oil Arena pitch improvements

Rochdale Hornets are proud to announce a major improvement to the pitch facility at the Crown Oil Arena, with the installation of brand-new goal posts.

Following ongoing issues with the previous posts - most notably their alignment and the complex, time-consuming installation process - club officials Andy Mazey, Carl Halstead and Jason Wilson have personally funded a significant four-figure investment to introduce a modern, lightweight system.

The new posts and associated technology have been sourced with safety, efficiency and pitch preservation in mind. 

Not only are they far quicker to set up, but they also offer a much safer solution for ground staff, eliminating the need for heavy machinery. 

This change ensures the long-term protection of the playing surface, while also providing a cleaner, more professional appearance for matchdays.

Supporters will get their first look at the new posts this Sunday, as they debut during the club's highly-anticipated Superhero Day fixture against Whitehaven. It's a fitting occasion to unveil a super upgrade that will benefit both players and fans alike.

Rochdale Hornets general manager Matt Rigby said: "We've had too many complex issues with the old posts, and in the last few matches at home it has been clearly visible to all inside the arena. 

"It was important we found a solution that not only addressed those problems but improved safety and protection of the pitch for years to come, for ourselves and Rochdale AFC as well. 

"We’re proud to deliver that for the club and our fans, and our heartfelt thanks go to Andy, Carl and Jason for personally funding this project and making it possible."

The club would like to place their thanks to our ground staff Mike and Josh for their hard work behind the scenes on the groundwork, and ensuring a smooth transition during the pitch maintenance months. 

The club are grateful for their contribution and support through this period.