PETERSFIELD Town will be hoping it is a case of third time lucky when they travel to Christchurch in the Russell Cotes Cup tonight (7.45pm).

The game has been scheduled at Hurn Bridge on two previous occasions during January and both times it fell victim to the weather – due to a frozen pitch and then a waterlogged pitch.

With a better weather forecast in the build up to this rearranged second round tie than the previous two occasions, the Rams are keeping everything crossed in the hope that this game will actually go ahead.

Petersfield were left fuming on Saturday when their home league game against Hanwell Town was postponed, even though club officials were confident the pitch was in a playable condition.

The Rams have only played twice since Boxing Day – trips to Bashley and Royston Town – and they have had no home games at Love Lane since December 19.

“We were left incredibly frustrated by Saturday’s decision not to play at home,” said chairman Graeme Moir.

“The pitch was wet first thing but our helpers got out on the playing surface and we managed to drain away a lot of water from the areas which could have got the game called off.

“When the referee came in to inspect the pitch the sun was out and there was a good breeze helping to dry out the surface – it was in far better shape than it was first thing in the morning.

“However, the official deemed the surface to be unfit. We were fuming at the decision as there was still over four hours to kick-off and the pitch was only going to get drier and better over that time.

“It’s proving to be a real pain for us as we have had no home football for six weeks and our next home game is another two weeks away.

“I only hope with some away games coming up tonight and Saturday that these go ahead so the lads can get out there playing again – everyone is raring to go and wanting to keep our superb run of form going.”

The Rams will be looking to extend their five match winning run against their Wessex Division 1 hosts tonight.

A trip to AFC Portchester awaits the victors in the quarter finals.