Old Trafford is not the only pitch that looks like a paddyfield apparently. The Arms Park pitch, home to Cardiff rugby club, is apparently vying for ultimate honour of the worst playing surface in Britain. Much to Cardiff's chagrin the problem was self-inflicted. During the Rugby World Cup the club, who had re-laid the pitch last summer, hired out the playing surface to hospitality companies. Marquees were erected and it killed off the grass on the Millennium Stand side of the stadium and under one set of posts.

The upshot was that Cardiff had to ask their counterparts at Cardiff City soccer club if Ninian Park was available. Their European Cup match against Montferrand eventually took place at the Arms Park, Irish referee Alan Lewis the ultimate arbiter. Eight tons of sand were thrown onto the pitch to save the match. So shall ye reap what ye sow . . . or sumint like that.