*JUST NOW: HULL CITY VS ASTON VILLA MATCH ON 5TH SEPTEMBER POSTPONED DUE TO SERIOUS INCIDENT*
HULL – The Championship fixture between Hull City and Aston Villa scheduled for *5th September* at the MKM Stadium has been postponed just hours before kick-off.
The EFL confirmed the decision at 1:45 PM today, citing a “serious safety incident” in the area surrounding the ground. According to Humberside Police, a gas leak was detected on Walton Street, directly outside the West Stand, at approximately 12:20 PM. Emergency services immediately cordoned off a 300-metre radius and ordered an evacuation of nearby bars, fan zones, and the club shop.
“The safety of supporters, staff and players is our absolute priority,” an EFL spokesperson said. “Following advice from Humberside Police and the emergency services, we have made the decision to postpone today’s match between Hull City and Aston Villa, due to be played on 5th September. We understand the frustration this causes and apologise for the late notice.”
Both clubs released statements within minutes. Hull City CEO Tan Kesler thanked emergency workers and said the club would work with authorities “to resolve the situation as quickly as possible.” Aston Villa confirmed their team bus was turned back en route to the stadium and all players and staff are safe.
Fans who were already inside the ground were calmly evacuated. Video from outside the stadium showed police and fire crews working on the street while supporters waited behind barriers. No injuries have been reported.
A new date for the 5th September fixture will be announced in due course. Season ticket holders and those who bought tickets will receive automatic refunds or the option to transfer to the rearranged game.
Manager Liam Rosenior said: “Obviously we wanted to play on the 5th, but this is bigger than football. We support the decision 100%.”
Villa boss Unai Emery added: “First, our thoughts are with the people of Hull. We will be ready whenever the game is rescheduled.”
The MKM Stadium will remain closed until engineers declare the area safe. The EFL said a further update is expected later this evening.
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