St Mirren chairman Stewart Gilmour put yet another postponement of their SPL game with Rangers down to pure bad luck.

Last night's clash at Love Street was called off just over an hour before kick-off by referee Stuart Dougal, because of heavy rainfall and a water-logged pitch.

The official carried out two inspections on the sodden surface before deciding there was no way the match could go ahead.

The fixture was originally set to take place back in November, but was postponed to allow Old Firm international players additional time to prepare for Scotland's Euro 2008 qualifier against Italy.

The cancellation has cost Saints around £30,000 in lost television revenue with Setanta, while Rangers were denied the opportunity to open up a four-point lead at the top of the table.

However, both clubs were in agreement with the decision.

Buddies chief Gilmour (left) said: "It's one of those things. I had a doubt at 3.30pm it would be a problem. We've had a lot of rain and the last four days have been unbelievable.

"The game has been very difficult to arrange anyway. We've been trying to re-schedule, with Rangers' success in Europe - which we hope will continue - and are trying to help them. Now the SPL and the clubs will just have to get these things resolved."

Referee Dougal was more concerned with player safety.

He said: "The first inspection took place when I arrived at 6.15pm and another one about 20 minutes later when the decision was taken.

"It was just about playable after my first inspection but it was clear it was only going to get worse.

"It could have been a bit of a lottery or worse. I had to take into account player and fan safety. Their safety was paramount. I spoke to the players and managers and everyone came to the same conclusion."