Friday’s scheduled Championship clash between Institute and Loughgall has been called off after the Brandywell failed a pitch inspection.

Peter Hutton’s Stute, who have won four and drawn one of their last six league matches, had been due to host the Villagers in Co Londonderry, but the fixture will now be rearranged following a 4pm inspection.

In a post on social media, Institute said: “Following a pitch inspection carried out by NIFL, tonight’s fixture has been postponed due to adverse weather conditions.

“Player safety and pitch integrity remain the priority, and unfortunately the surface has been deemed unplayable. A new date for the rearranged match will be confirmed in due course once agreed with NIFL. Thank you for your understanding and stay safe in the conditions.”

placeholder image — Institute had been due to host Loughgall on Friday evening. (Photo by INPHO/Presseye/Stephen Hamilton)

Northern Ireland has been hit with freezing temperatures and snow in recent days, but the remaining Irish League fixture schedule currently remains unaffected.

Glentoran, who had their match against Carrick Rangers postponed due to a failed pitch inspection at The Oval last Friday, are set to host Dungannon Swifts this evening while Larne welcome basement club Glenavon to Inver Park.

In the Championship, Newington travel to Ballinamallard United while there’s also Irish Cup action scheduled for Friday with Newry City hosting Drumaness Mills in the fourth round.

On Saturday, there are four Premiership matches scheduled: Cliftonville vs Coleraine, Bangor vs Linfield, Ballymena United vs Crusaders and Carrick Rangers vs Portadown.

At time of writing, there are currently no further pitch inspections scheduled for the weekend action.