Magic of the FA Cup: Eastleigh's tie with Bolton to go ahead after sand and tarpaulin save the day

Ground staff use drastic measures at the Silverlake Stadium to protect the surface after heavy rainfall

The conditions at Eastleigh called their FA Cup third round match with Bolton under question (Getty)

Sand, tarpaulin and old fashioned hard work have saved National League Eastleigh’s FA Cup third round clash with Bolton Wanderers.

Supporters and journalists alike have captured the playing conditions at the Spitfires’ Silverlake Stadium on their smart phones after heavy rainfall last night raised doubts over whether the fixture would go ahead.

While intricate passing was never likely to feature at the 5,192 capacity arena, the images appearing on social media suggest the match is fortunate to go ahead. Championship side Bolton may be accustomed to under-soil heating, but the FA Cup offers no such comforts.

Eastleigh’s official Twitter account posted: “THANK YOU too all of the volunteers from both Eastleigh and @OfficialBWFC that helped prepare the pitch! The game wouldn't go on without you.”

Streaks of mud are visible in some pictures while one Vine appears to show the referee testing the bounce quality - with little success.

The Independent's Glenn Moore provides an update

But things looked bleak earlier this afternoon

After a Herculean effort, however, the match will go ahead

Kick-off it scheduled for 3pm.