The Premier League is to investigate power supplies at football grounds around the country after a third match this season was abandoned because of floodlight failure.

The Wimbledon vs Arsenal blackout was called off a minute into the second half when power failed at Selhurst Park plunging the ground, and 22,000 supporters, into darkness.

Premier League spokesman Mike Lee said: "We'll be asking for a full statement of the facts from Wimbledon.

"In addition we are surveying all our grounds with some specialist consultants to consider what further steps might be needed and those recommendations will be considered between ourselves and the clubs and if further steps need to be taken they will be taken."

One young fan in a flashing Santa Claus hat but not enough sparkle for the match to continue

According to Wimbledon figures the Arsenal match brought in at least £250,000. Electricity suppliers say a back-up generator could be bought for about £70,000.

Angry supporters' groups argue they are paying for the failure of rich clubs to install adequate equipment.

Electricians desperately worked to restore power at Selhurst Park on Tuesday as Wimbledon and Arsenal both agreed such power failures must not recur.

Power is restored

Wimbledon chief Sam Hammam and rival bosses Joe Kinnear and Arsene Wenger were united on one thing - it must not happen again.

Hammam said: "The Premier League has more than enough money. This shouldn't be happening.

"It's up to the League to make sure that there are back-up systems are in place. The pride of the Premier League and the country means we must take action.

"I'll be meeting with seven other chairmen and putting this right should be the first thing on the agenda."

Arsene Wenger: Thought his team was gaining the upper hand when the lights went out.

Hammam promised that, if it was "logistically" possible, he would ignore league rules and offer free tickets for the rescheduled match next year to the 22,000 fans who went home early.

Kinnear added: "It's very frustrating and obviously it's not just one club. Something seriously has to be looked at. It just has to be sorted out."

Wenger added that in his native France the home side forfeits the match if a game is abandoned due to floodlight failure and it is found to be the club's fault.
 

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