The decision was made to get help after one of the wettest years on record left the pitch in a decrepit state.

"The condition of the pitch meant it was no longer practical to look ahead to the Morfa at the expense of what we have here," explained stadium manager Don Goss.

"It is not a case of covering up the cracks. The club have invested a considerable amount of money in a complete overhaul of the playing surface. It should ensure a good pitch for the remainder of our time at the Vetch."

Work at the Vetch saw thousands of 6-inch holes made in the pitch, before it was levelled with a new coating of sand and specially treated topsoil. Fertiliser was added and the whole surface was reseeded.

Meanwhile, on the penultimate day of discounted season ticket sales, Swansea report a good response to the reduced prices.

"The club are very happy with the number of tickets sold so far," said spokesman Peter Owen.But the final figure is not expected to be anything like last season's club record 2,800 season ticket holders. Discounted tickets are on sale at the club for the last time between 9am and 3pm tomorrow.