PITCH PERFECT
Behind the scenes as Dundee dig up Dens Park pitch ahead of major transformation works to get playing surface sorted out
The club has been in a dispute with the SPFL over figures relating to their fine
DUNDEE's season finished fewer than 24 hours ago.
But already the club has started work on the transformation of the Dens Park pitch, after games were called off on FIVE separate occasions there over the course of the Premiership campaign due to it being waterlogged.
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The stadium's playing surface has endured heavy criticism and landed the club with a substantial fine to pay.
SPFL boss were left absolutely fuming when a crucial televised match against Rangers was postponed not once but TWICE due to the shoddy surface being in no fit state for use.
The Tayside club were slapped with a fine of £186,000 according to a league statement, of which £120,000 is suspended until the end of season 2024/25.
However, Dundee have DISPUTED that amount, saying the figure in the press release was inaccurate.
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In any case, it could be even more costly for the Dee after both Sky Sports and Rangers launched compensation claims against them.
The club vowed to sort the pitch out ahead of next season and that process has now begun.
Video footage on Dundee's official Twitter (X) account showed two tractors being put to work out on the grass.
The current turf is being ripped up before a brand new playing surface is put down.
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The Dee have taken issue with how the SPFL have broken down the costs that have been levelled at the club.
While they aren't disputing the overall total, Dundee are arguing that their fine is actually £150,000 and NOT the £186,000 claimed by the SPFL in their press release.
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They explain this is due to additional money due for television and costs owed to pitch specialists.
Dundee said: "Following an SPFL disciplinary hearing, Dundee FC has been advised of the tribunal’s findings as set out in the below SPFL press release, which in our view is inaccurate.
“Dundee FC has in fact been fined £150,000, of which £120,000 is suspended until the end of season 2024/25. This suspended element will be automatically triggered in the event of a single waterlogged pitch postponement next season.
“In addition, £36,429.60 is payable as compensation to the SPFL for television and pitch specialist costs.
“Dundee Football Club are deeply disappointed with the severity of the punishment and are currently seeking legal advice with regards to an appeal.
“The club will be making no further comment on the outcome while we seek legal advice.”
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