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Saracens urge fans to turn up for rearranged European Champions Cup match after refusing to play behind closed doors

Weekend clash was postponed due to bad weather: Jordan Mansfield/Getty Images
Weekend clash was postponed due to bad weather: Jordan Mansfield/Getty Images

Furious Saracens have refused to play their rearranged European Champions Cup match against Clermont Auvergne behind closed doors and defied tournament organisers by allowing fans into Allianz Park for a 5.30pm kick-off.

European Professional Club Rugby (EPRC) announced last night that the match, postponed yesterday due to safety fears following heavy snow, would be played in front of empty stands - a decision that would cost the club £300,000.

However, Saracens said today ticket holders for the fixture will be admitted and other fans can pay at the gate to help reduce the losses. The club said ticket holders unable to attend will be compensated.

Club chairman Nigel Wray said: “We look forward to seeing as many of you here as possible. We will do what we can to not be beaten by the adverse conditions put in front of us, both on and off the pitch: it’s the British Way, it’s the Saracens Way. Real supporters with real tickets will always be welcome.”