Both sets of supporters were left frustrated at Sunday’s turn of events at MKM Stadium
Barry Cooper Hull City correspondent
21:12, 04 Jan 2026Updated 21:30, 04 Jan 2026
The areas around the MKM Stadium pitch were deemed unsafe(Image: Pro Sports Images)
Watford have vented their frustration at the decision to call off Sunday’s Championship clash with Hull City less than 20 minutes before kick-off.
A decision was made shortly ahead of the 3pm showdown at the MKM Stadium to shelve a contest which – if it was played – would have seen fifth host fourth in the final outing of the festive period.
Both sets of players were out on the pitch warming up, while fans from both teams were filing into the stadium ready for the top-of-the-table meeting.
Concerns were raised around the immediate surrounding areas of the playing surface, which had been hit by ice amid the plummeting temperatures in East Yorkshire.
Despite groundstaff attempting to thaw the areas in front of all four stands, it was decided there was too much risk to the officials and players to allow the game to be played, and at 2:42pm, City posted a statement on social media to confirm the game had been called off, and fans already inside the ground were told three minutes later.
Referee Anthony Backhouse, along with City boss Sergej Jakirovic, Watford manager Javi Gracia, the club’s safety staff and other officials, collectively decided that – despite the pitch being playable – the safety of the players and officials couldn’t be guaranteed, and the decision was made to call the game off.
It’s understood both managers were in agreement with whatever decision was, ultimately, made by the referee and the EFL.
“We hope all our inconvenienced fans made it home safely from Hull,” Watford said in their statement on Sunday evening. “We reiterate we were ready and willing to play after the pitch was passed fit by the referee.
“We remain disappointed by the decision to postpone, and by how the decision was reached. We didn’t agree to the postponement.”
City say they will announce details on ticket refunds in due course, while a date for the rearranged game will also be communicated once agreed with Watford and the EFL.
The EFL, meanwhile, who were in contact with both clubs and the on-field officials throughout the afternoon, will seek observations from both as they look into the decision-making process.
Here at Hull Live, we are dedicated to bringing you the best Hull City coverage and analysis. Make sure you don’t miss out on the latest City news by joining our free WhatsApp group.
You can get all the breaking news and best analysis sent straight to your phone by clicking here to subscribe. You can also subscribe to our free newsletter service.
Click here to be sent all the day’s biggest stories.