POLICE have confirmed that a fire at Radcliffe Borough FC ground is being treated as arson.
Half of the main stand was damaged, with the press box destroyed, when the fire swept through part of the ground off Pilkington Road.
Club officials having been working today to ensure tomorrow night's fixture can go ahead.
A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: "We were called at 8pm to Coleshaw Close East to reports of a fire.
"The press box was alight.
"It is being treated as arson.
"Anyone with any information should call police on 101 quoting incident number 2056 of 4th December 2016."
Officials said they were overwhelmed with the messages of support and help, including financial donations.
The club is hoping the community support the match against West Didsbury and Chorlton in the Lancashire Cup to help it move forward from the devastating incident.
Chairman of the club, Paul Hilton said:" It's a massive blow, but we're hoping the community rallies around the club and helps us out."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here