OXFORD United were one of 34 clubs to vote in favour of introducing artificial 3G pitches in Leagues One and Two from next season today.

But the motion was not passed after 34 clubs also voted against the proposal, with four abstentions.

The outcome was a surprise after a majority had indicated in September they would vote in favour of permitting the use of plastic playing surfaces.

The meeting at Derby County saw United represented by secretary Mick Brown.

“This issue divides opinion amongst clubs,” said Football League chief executive Shaun Harvey.

Artificial surfaces were outlawed from professional football in 1995, but they can be used in the FA Cup and at Conference level.

  • Do you want alerts delivered straight to your phone via our WhatsApp service? Text NEWS or SPORT or NEWS AND SPORT, depending on which services you want, and your full name to 07767 417704. Save our number into your phone’s contacts as Oxford Mail WhatsApp and ensure you have WhatsApp installed.