Allianz Stadium officials have conceded Friday night’s swamp-like surface was not up to scratch with an investigation now open into the $828-million venue’s drainage system.
Parramatta captain Clint Gutherson described the field as one of the worst he had played on, after 11.5mm of water fell in 15 minutes before kick.
It left Parramatta and Sydney Roosters players drenched from the opening minutes, with large puddles of water evident across the entire ground.
The surface at the two-year old stadium looked significantly worse than suburban ground Brookvale Oval, which also copped a deluge on Friday night.
“Prior to kick off on Friday night, Allianz Stadium received 11.5mm of rain in 15 minutes as a severe storm hit the area resulting in a drainage issue during play,” a Venues NSW spokesperson told AAP.
“This is a brand-new stadium and it shouldn’t have happened.
“We are taking this seriously and have already commenced a thorough investigation to identify the cause to ensure the issue is rectified.
“The review will be completed by the end of this week and further updates will be provided.”
Ground staff have a fortnight until the next fixtures at Allianz Stadium – an NRLW-NRL double-header on September 1.
The ground is also set to host at least one finals match next month.
Allianz Stadium is built with a gravel and sand layer beneath the turf to assist with drainage.
However Friday night’s issue appeared to be at surface level, given the age of time it took for the water to soak into the grass.
The initial turf at the stadium in 2022 had come from Windsor after flooding in the region, prompting concerns over silt levels which has the potential to impact water flow.
But AAP has been told the turf at Allianz Stadium was relayed again last summer, following a series of off-season concerts at the venue.