Butcher defends synthetic pitches

The current pitch at East End Park has many critics

Motherwell manager Terry Butcher has come to the defence of Dunfermline's artificial surface, claiming it is no more dangerous than grass.

Butcher's side play at East End Park on Tuesday evening.

"You have to try and adapt and accept the fact that you are going to play on it," said Butcher.

"I wouldn't say it's dangerous - it's different. Brian Kerr did himself a serious injury on grass so it can happen at any time and on any surface."

The current surface at East End Park is to be lifted and replaced by a superior version, although the SPL clubs are due to discuss the issue in the near future.

But Butcher is not among those who have been lining up to criticise the pitch.

"It's a fixture we have to fulfil," he added. "We will play and try to win the match.

"I don't like it but there's no point bleating on about it. Quality players don't like playing on synthetic pitches but I'm not sure it's any more dangerous.

"Mentally you have to get your mind on the fact it's another football match."