FH Hafnafjordur will not play at East End Park

Despite the surface being endorsed by Uefa, competition rules allow clubs to reject playing on synthetic turf.

The second leg of the second qualifying round is now set for Perth's McDiarmid Park on 26 August.

The Icelandic club will also play the first leg away from home, having switched the game to the national stadium in Reykjavik.

Hafnafjordur assistant coach Leifur Gardarsson inspected the pitch at East End Park on Tuesday.

Pars set for Iceland trip

"We're sorry we can't play on this surface. We have played on grass all summer," club secretary Peter Stephensen told the Daily Record.

"It is dangerous to the players to switch to playing on this surface and we do not want to risk injury.

"We're top of the league with six games remaining and must keep our squad well as we go for the championship."

Pars chairman John Yorkston said: "It's obviously disappointing not to play the tie at East End Park, but I can't say we're surprised."

St Johnstone have confirmed that the second leg will be played at McDiarmid Park on 26 August.

Saints managing director Stewart Duff said: "We have had lengthy talks with Dunfermline and I am pleased they have chosen to come to McDiarmid Park.

"We will help them in any way we can to ensure the tie goes smoothly."