MacLeod Cover Systems
League Cup Final, Wembley Stadium
The FA
Fixture
League Cup Final
Location
Wembley Stadium, London
Date
February 2010
Product
MacLeod Covers™
Sport
Mens Domestic Cup
Division
League Cup Final
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Challenge
The League Cup Final between Aston Villa and Manchester United at Wembley faced significant risk due to the weather. Forecasts predicted heavy rainfall in the lead-up to the match, and the pitch – which had been recently re-turfed – was already experiencing filtration and drainage issues.
With concerns raised by the FA and STRI, the playing surface was deemed vulnerable to saturation. A late request for intervention meant there was little time to act, and urgent measures were required to protect the pitch and guarantee the showpiece final could go ahead as scheduled.
IT’S THE NUMBERS THAT COUNT
The Ultimate Pitch Management System
The deployment of the MacLeod System at Cambridge United FC delivered measurable results, ensuring the FA Cup 4th Round fixture went ahead smoothly despite severe weather risks.
30
Of Rainfall
Diverted away from the playing surface the week before
48
Hours
Of active system management delivered by Sports & Stadia staff
0
Delays To Kick-Off
Ensuring the final proceeded as scheduled.
1
Cup Final Safeguarded
Protecting The FA, clubs, and broadcasters
The Plan
Solution
Sports & Stadia Services deployed the MacLeod Cover System to shield the Wembley surface from heavy rainfall and provide active pitch management in the 48 hours before kick-off.
Key steps included:
- 26 February: At 5pm, The FA and STRI decided the full system was required to protect the pitch.
- 27 February: The MacLeod System was transported to Wembley and deployed early afternoon. Warm airflow was introduced overnight and into the following day, preventing 25–30mm of rainfall from penetrating the surface.
- 28 February: With rain continuing, the system remained in place and fully managed through the morning.
”Since 2001 the service has succeeded in significantly reducing the risk of postponements of live televised games in the world’s most famous cup competition. The system has protected participating clubs significant TV revenues and match day revenue streams.
The FAGovernance Department
Outcome
Results
The MacLeod System was removed one hour prior to kick-off, giving grounds staff time for final pitch preparations before the teams took to the field. Despite the uncovered goalmouth areas showing signs of saturation due to the volume of rain, the main playing surface was declared fit for play and performed to the required professional standard.
- System removal one hour prior to kick-off, allowing final pitch preparations before teams took to the field.
- Main playing surface declared fit for play, performing to professional standards despite challenging conditions.
- 25–30mm of rainfall successfully prevented from penetrating the surface in the 48 hours before the match.
- League Cup Final went ahead on schedule, avoiding financial, logistical, and reputational consequences of postponement.
FINAL RESULTS
Project Conclusion
Through rapid mobilisation and expert system management, Sports & Stadia Services enabled the League Cup Final at Wembley to go ahead despite severe weather conditions and a vulnerable playing surface. This project highlights our ability to respond quickly under pressure and deliver reliable results on the biggest stages.
PROTECT THE PITCH. SAVE THE GAME.
Protection, whatever
the weather.
From rain to shine, our solutions are designed to shield what matters most. Ready to feel the difference?
