CREWE Alexandra have hired special pitch covers in an effort to make sure that this afternoon's League Two match against Torquay United goes ahead (3pm).

Plummeting temperatures raised concerns that the Gresty Road pitch might freeze.

But Alex manager Dario Gradi said: "We've done everything we can, and I'm not expecting the match to be off."

United's FA Cup Third Round tie against Brighton & Hove Albion next month will be all-ticket — but for Seagulls fans only.

The tie will take place at Plainmoor on Saturday, January 2.

It will be pay-on-the-day for Gulls supporters, with normal first-team prices applying.

United have three League Two games before Brighton come to town — Crewe away this afternoon, Hereford at home on Boxing Day and AFC Bournemouth away on December 28.