Cup call-offs set to start today after SFA order

The severe weather conditions severely hit league fixtures over the festive period and there are already doubts over this weekend's cup ties including Morton v Celtic and Forfar v St Johnstone.

The Scottish Football Association has taken the unusual step of urging clubs to make early decisions on matches after checking on pitches and the surrounding areas of stadiums, and, with no let-up in the adverse weather, postponements are expected.

"Due to the extreme weather conditions, the Scottish FA has been proactive in encouraging early pitch inspections for all Active Nation Scottish Cup fourth round ties this weekend," an SFA spokesperson said. "In the interests of supporter safety and convenience, inspections will take place from tomorrow onwards.

"Clubs have also been advised to liaise with their local authority with regard to the surrounding areas of their grounds. Under the Scottish FA cup competition rules, pitch inspections can be carried out no later than four hours prior to kick-off but given the weather forecast for the week ahead, it is prudent for inspections to be carried out as quickly as possible."

Morton boss James Grady has already cast doubts on the Cappielow pitch. He said: "The frost got in before the snow came and the snow is still on the pitch. There is not much you can do after that has happened.

"There has been talk about getting a balloon to cover the pitch and things like that but even then we have been told that wouldn't help. We need a major thaw."