It’s hoped the work will lead to better quality football being played on the surfaces.
In order to upgrade the playing surface at the SMiSA Stadium and the training facility, St Mirren is investing six figures in new turf.
The current weather-worn surfaces will be torn up and replaced in time for the upcoming season, according to boss Stephen Robinson.
Following Wednesday, May 15, the team’s final home game against Hearts, the turf at the SMiSA was dug up, and work on the grass pitch at Ralston started on Monday.
Better pitches, in Robbo’s opinion, translate into better football and more talented players in Paisley.
The Buddies’ manager stated, “We need to be placing in the top six more frequently than we currently do, and to do that you need infrastructure.”
“The board has helped us with that by investing funds in the training facility to enable players to play the quality football that we have developed this season. We want training to be enjoyable for participants.
We have to take care of that in order to return the following season and start strong with fresh pitches.
“It draws more and better players, elevating the calibre and entertainment value of Scottish football.”
Due to pitch-related issues during this season’s Premiership, Dundee’s Dens Park has been fined £186,000, of which £120,000 will be postponed until the next season.
Robbo stated, “I’m not well versed on why they’re in good nick or bad nick, so I can’t comment on anybody else’s pitch.” Nevertheless, a stronger pitch provides the entertainment value. That is what all of the managers have hinted at, and they are entirely correct.
“On a decent surface, entertaining spectators is easier. Thus, I wholeheartedly concur that funding for Scottish football’s infrastructure is necessary.
Squads cannot simply be filled with it; it is not sustainable. Our goal is to improve the product and we must build for the future.
This season, there have been times when not even we are proud of the pitch we made. We are changing that, but the weather has played a significant role in it.
“We put in what’s sustainable and chip away trying to improve and improve,” the speaker continued. Our goal is to develop into a top-six team with a top-six facility.
