KICK-OFF in the FA Cup tie between Burton Albion and West Ham was delayed due to a hole in one of the goal nets.
Saturday’s fourth-round clash at the Pirelli Stadium was scheduled to get going at 12.15pm.
But match officials were forced to put the match on hold when an issue was spotted with the net behind Hammers goalkeeper Alphonse Areola.
TNT Sports co-commentator Glenn Hoddle could hardly believe his eyes while watching Burton staff scramble to make a quick fix.
He said, chuckling: “This is going to work against Burton. They’ve ramped this crowd up and they’re itching to go.
“This net is causing too many issues and taking too long. It’s not the ideal start for them.
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“When you’ve ramped this home side up, you want to get out there and get at them.”
Social media users were just as confused, with one writing: “Blimey, a hole in the net already? That’s a proper odd start to the match lads.”
Another commented: “Burton already finding holes in West Ham‘s defence.”
And a third chimed in with: “#KeepTheFACupWeird”.
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The hole was eventually tied shut and the match kicked off around four minutes later than planned.
The delay in play drew more eyes towards West Ham fans’ pre-match protest.
A plane was flown over the Pirelli Stadium pulling a banner which read: “Sullivan & Brady out – no more BS”.
Some supporters also held up red cards with “NO MORE BS” written on them, referencing the leadership of co-owner David Sullivan and vice-chair Karen Brady.
Sullivan and Brady are scheduled to meet with the Fan Advisory Board to discuss supporters’ concerns on February 26.
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