State of football pitches now vs yesteryear

[Erudite geezer]

Football pitches even in the top divisions were absolute mudbaths in the 80s and weren't fantastic as recently as the 90s.

So what has changed now so that in the premier league at least they have been transformed into putting greens?

Skilled grounds persons?
Better grasses?

[KareemK]

Improved grass (sometimes a mix of synthetic and real is used)
Improved knowledge
Improved technology
Improved investment
Improved maintenance

[Simpo Two]

I'd suggest mostly money.

[OllieC]

It's concrete proof of climate change

[Eric Mc]

Money (as Simpo says).

[southendpier]

Many are hybrid pitches now, a 'plastic' base mesh with natural grass within.

Also teams do not train on their pitches now playign on dedicated training grounds. Fewer reserve teams/youth teams play on the main pitch for the same reason.

So a stronger pitch that is used less.

[boroandy87]

Two reasons IMO.

1. Teams now know they need to play football on the deck in order to be successful, in the main. Thus more time is being spent looking into better grounds people.

2. Technology. If you see a lot of the pitches nowadays you will see they have machines on them. I think they are something to do with light and aiding photosynthesis but can't be sure without googling. Also, a lot now have under soil heating.

Both kind of go hand in hand. I think previously they just played on the pitch and that was that. Now, they take more care and realise that the pitch can be used to their advantage etc.

[Timbo_S2]

Our pitch has underground heating, multiple drainage layers, and is a grass / synthetic composite. The Sub-strata is also laid to exacting tollerances to ensure a level playing surface. Costs a packet to replace, which is done every other year...

[SpeckledJim]

They are used less, and looked after more.

Sun-lamps, proper drainage, heating.

[DocJock]

All of the above, but don't overlook the incentive of financial penalties for Premier League teams with substandard pitches.

[SpeckledJim]

And a postponed game was only a hassle for the however many thousand people were going to be there.

Now it's a total financial disaster.

[TwigtheWonderkid]

I miss the mudbaths. I miss away trips to watch Chelsea play beach football at the Baseball ground. I even miss away trips to Sunderland, setting off from London at 6am only to have the game called off on a 2pm pitch inspection.

But I'm a bit of a football traditionalist. I lost interest when I ordered a burger at Stamford Bridge and the bloke asked me how I wanted it done?