Incessant showers rain off Waterford's Dubai friendly

The club’s press release on January 4 had cited the “sunny shores” of the United Arab Emirates as an attraction of an event that has left many top-flight clubs in the shade.

PRE-SEASON TOUR: Waterford and Fleetwood owner Andy Pilley. Pic: Michael P Ryan/Sportsfile

Waterford’s warm-weather pre-season trip has turned into a washout after their friendly against Fleetwood United on Friday was abandoned due to a waterlogged pitch.

Andy Pilley owns both clubs – as well as his League One outfit Fleetwood Town – and the lavish move was designed to best prepare the First Division title favourites for their campaign kicking off on February 17 at Wexford Youths.