Work will continue on Kingspan Stadium through the night as Ulster pull out all the stops to host the crunch Champions Cup clash with La Rochelle on Saturday.
The province are determined to play at their Belfast home against the reigning tournament champions but have been dealing with a frozen playing surface this week.
A move to the RDS Arena has been proposed but Ulster are doing everything in their power not to have to switch the tie to the Dublin ground.
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Ulster already face a must-win tie against Ronan O'Gara's crack French outfit after last weekend's 39-0 loss at Sale Sharks.
It is expected that the Champions Cup organisers EPCR will make a final decision on the tie this morning. Another option could be to delay the game by 24 hours, with weather conditions set to improve over the weekend.
Ulster CEO Jonny Petrie provided an update on the situation this evening. "I’m conscious that many of you will have a keen eye on the weather forecast and will be looking for clarity around Saturday’s game," said Petrie.
“As we communicated yesterday, we are making every effort that we can to get our game against Stade Rochelais played here at Kingspan Stadium.
“In keeping with normal protocol for all our matches, we have various contingency plans in place, but our focus remains on getting the game played here at home, in front of our supporters.
“I would like to thank our ground staff for their round-the-clock work, which includes everything from frost covers to on-pitch heaters, with these efforts continuing throughout tonight in our ongoing effort to get the game played here.
“We continue to be in regular contact with the team at EPCR to update them on the latest situation and are working together to make the decision on whether the pitch is a safe playing surface or if we need to action a contingency, with a call likely being made tomorrow afternoon.
“Thank-you also for your continued patience and support. We want to have you with us at one of our most important fixtures of the season – and the latest updates will be shared on our channels as the situation progresses.
“Here’s hoping we can come together at Kingspan Stadium on Saturday.”
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