Northern Ireland game in doubt (From Hampshire Chronicle)
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Northern Ireland game in doubt
9:52am Friday 22nd March 2013 in National Sport News © Press Association 2013
Michael O'Neill's Northern Ireland side are due to face Russia tonight but the game is in doubt
Northern Ireland's World Cup qualifier against Russia tonight is in some doubt due to the weather in Belfast.
Overnight rain and snow has left the city in wintery conditions, making the Windsor Park pitch a major concern.
Linfield's stadium is among the more basic in international football and it does not have much in the way of defences to the elements.
The Irish Football Association this morning released the following statement: "The referee (Norway's Tom Hagen) will inspect the pitch at 10am this morning as part of his normal duty.
"We will keep you updated throughout the day."
The snow has also forced the closure of the runway at George Best Belfast City Airport.
