FRIDAY night football could be coming to the County Ground next season as an ambitious Town look to raise the stakes for a concerted promotion push.
In a bid to increase attendances for the 2008/09 campaign and generate a hostile home atmosphere, preliminary talks have already started to discuss the option of switching some weekend games to Friday nights.
Various clubs all round the country have already experimented with the idea in the past with huge success, most notably Tranmere who Town travel to tomorrow night, and Swindon chiefs believe it could have a similar revitalising effect in Wiltshire.
He said: "I can't deny the idea has been discussed. We clearly need to wait and see what the fixture list looks like and whether it would be possible to play some Friday night fixtures.
"We have only had embryonic thoughts about it so far but it will continue to be discussed and we will investigate its feasibility, practicality and availability.
"We are at the moment talking about ticketing pricing for next season and this latest thought is for us just another way of getting the club back to the heart of the community."
The main argument for Friday night football, which has also been successfully implemented at West Country rivals Bristol City, is to attract those fans lost at weekends by other commitments like local football.
Some of the more traditionalists would argue football's rightful place is at 3pm on a Saturday but Watkins assured all supporters every effort would be made to ensure they took the right decision.
He said: "We will look at the things that compete with football on a Saturday and see if moving it to Friday will make the club more accessible.
"We are looking to raise the stakes and raise the atmosphere at the County Ground next season.
"I suppose I am going back to my mantra of trying to get this club back to being a family club.
"If Friday night football happened we would make sure meticulous planning was put in to make it a real family event.
"We would arrange other things around the game for all the family and it could be a way of making it a real event for everyone to come to."
James Neighbour, Football Liaison Officer for Swindon Police, said: "As long as there is a dialogue between the club and the police, we should be able to come to some arrangement.
"We would look at each match on an individual basis and make an informed decision.
"We want the football club to do well, and we want the supporters to enjoy going to the games."
Miguel Comminges faces a two-game ban after picking up his 10th yellow card of the season against Brighton on Saturday.
The full-back will miss Town's home clash against Oldham on Saturday, April 5, and the trip to Doncaster on Friday, April 11.
7:55am Thursday 27th March 2008
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CommentPosted by: Since 1950, Stroud, Glos on 8:19am Thu 27 Mar 08
SOME games on a Friday night I'm sure would prove popular, as are the mid-week games under lights. But, please don't give up the 'Saturday slot' because of pressures from TV sports coverage.
SOME games on a Friday night I'm sure would prove popular, as are the mid-week games under lights. But, please don't give up the 'Saturday slot' because of pressures from TV sports coverage.
Posted by: Time_waits_for_no_ma
n, Swindon on 8:22am Thu 27 Mar 08
Hmmm a cold wet Friday evening in L2 playing Macclesfield Tn.. I hope not. The Friday I can agree with but L2..(over to you MM )
Hmmm a cold wet Friday evening in L2 playing Macclesfield Tn.. I hope not. The Friday I can agree with but L2..(over to you MM )
Posted by: stickybeak, . on 8:25am Thu 27 Mar 08
Nooooooooooo. Please no more than a few games if we have to go this route. Think of the numerous out of towners who work on Fridays.
A few pints and the game is the staple football "experience". Not rush home from work, grab something quick to eat and rush to the game.
I say that as someone who lives in Swindon.
Nooooooooooo. Please no more than a few games if we have to go this route. Think of the numerous out of towners who work on Fridays.
A few pints and the game is the staple football "experience". Not rush home from work, grab something quick to eat and rush to the game.
I say that as someone who lives in Swindon.
Posted by: ecklington, Coleford, Glos. on 8:25am Thu 27 Mar 08
As long as Malpas is still here, you can guarantee attendances will certainly NOT go up!!!!
Do something NOW, Nick, or the club will disappear faster than water running down a drain. The longer AF and the Board take to dismiss this idiot, the worse the Town's finances will get, again.
Malpas should do the honourable thing and resign, but I guess he'll hang on to his contract for all he's worth (not a lot), no honour in him.
As long as Malpas is still here, you can guarantee attendances will certainly NOT go up!!!!
Do something NOW, Nick, or the club will disappear faster than water running down a drain. The longer AF and the Board take to dismiss this idiot, the worse the Town's finances will get, again.
Malpas should do the honourable thing and resign, but I guess he'll hang on to his contract for all he's worth (not a lot), no honour in him.
Posted by: stickybeak, . on 8:27am Thu 27 Mar 08
Nooooooooooo. Please no more than a few games if we have to go this route. Think of the numerous out of towners who work on Fridays.
A few pints and the game is the staple football "experience". Not rush home from work, grab something quick to eat and rush to the game.
I say that as someone who lives in Swindon.
Nooooooooooo. Please no more than a few games if we have to go this route. Think of the numerous out of towners who work on Fridays.
A few pints and the game is the staple football "experience". Not rush home from work, grab something quick to eat and rush to the game.
I say that as someone who lives in Swindon.
Posted by: Peter Wilson, Wantage on 8:34am Thu 27 Mar 08
Friday night games? Oh great what excuse can I have now for not going Saturday shopping with my wife :-)
I think a couple of games on Friday would be a good idea if it attracts more fans, but I wonder also how many fans will be lost because of fewer away fans and also those Town fans that travel long distances for home games that would be less likely to on a Friday night.
Friday night games? Oh great what excuse can I have now for not going Saturday shopping with my wife :-)
I think a couple of games on Friday would be a good idea if it attracts more fans, but I wonder also how many fans will be lost because of fewer away fans and also those Town fans that travel long distances for home games that would be less likely to on a Friday night.
Posted by: M Mack, Highworth on 8:35am Thu 27 Mar 08
If you want to increase gates and revenue, then theres no need to move games to Friday evening, get a decent manager, play decent footy and I think you will notice a rise in gates and revenue. Not rocket science is it.
If you want to increase gates and revenue, then theres no need to move games to Friday evening, get a decent manager, play decent footy and I think you will notice a rise in gates and revenue. Not rocket science is it.
Posted by: stickybeak, . on 8:36am Thu 27 Mar 08
Edit: sorry about the double post. Don't use the 'back' button :)
What I meant to say that a 7 or 7:45 KO also doesn't lead to a very family friendly match finsh time.
It's great that all avenues are being explored to make this club a better supported club, but personally I don't think this one of the better ideas.
Edit: sorry about the double post. Don't use the 'back' button :)
What I meant to say that a 7 or 7:45 KO also doesn't lead to a very family friendly match finsh time.
It's great that all avenues are being explored to make this club a better supported club, but personally I don't think this one of the better ideas.
Posted by: old town red, swindon on 8:36am Thu 27 Mar 08
recent results indicate our forwards score more goals under floodlights than what they've managed to score on a Saturday. If we had as many clean sheets as blanks at the other end, we may well have still been contending for a play off place. I think some home games on a Friday is well worth a try, especially around the Xmas period where traditionally many fans miss the pre-Saturday to the holiday to go Xmas shopping
recent results indicate our forwards score more goals under floodlights than what they've managed to score on a Saturday. If we had as many clean sheets as blanks at the other end, we may well have still been contending for a play off place. I think some home games on a Friday is well worth a try, especially around the Xmas period where traditionally many fans miss the pre-Saturday to the holiday to go Xmas shopping
Posted by: old town red, swindon on 8:36am Thu 27 Mar 08
recent results indicate our forwards score more goals under floodlights than what they've managed to score on a Saturday. If we had as many clean sheets as blanks at the other end, we may well have still been contending for a play off place. I think some home games on a Friday is well worth a try, especially around the Xmas period where traditionally many fans miss the pre-Saturday to the holiday to go Xmas shopping
recent results indicate our forwards score more goals under floodlights than what they've managed to score on a Saturday. If we had as many clean sheets as blanks at the other end, we may well have still been contending for a play off place. I think some home games on a Friday is well worth a try, especially around the Xmas period where traditionally many fans miss the pre-Saturday to the holiday to go Xmas shopping
Posted by: callumbus, swindon on 8:37am Thu 27 Mar 08
Think about it by all means ... and then decide that getting the right squad together will have more effect towards improving gates than fiddling about with when games are played. Don't use Tranmere as an example - they only play Friday nights to avoid clashing with Everton and Liverpool home games - not a valid comparison at all.
Think about it by all means ... and then decide that getting the right squad together will have more effect towards improving gates than fiddling about with when games are played. Don't use Tranmere as an example - they only play Friday nights to avoid clashing with Everton and Liverpool home games - not a valid comparison at all.
Posted by: bagofsweets, Dubai on 8:43am Thu 27 Mar 08
Tranmere switched to Friday night games because they are the 3rd team in Liverpool. The Friday night attendence is made up of Everton and Liverpool fans who watch the Blues and Reds on a Saturday.
It is guaranteed to increase the Tranmere attendance if games are played on a Friday.
At STFC, many people come from out of town to watch. These people will suffer and attendences will actually go down.
Doesn't take a genius to work that out.
Don't do it.
Tranmere switched to Friday night games because they are the 3rd team in Liverpool. The Friday night attendence is made up of Everton and Liverpool fans who watch the Blues and Reds on a Saturday.
It is guaranteed to increase the Tranmere attendance if games are played on a Friday.
At STFC, many people come from out of town to watch. These people will suffer and attendences will actually go down.
Doesn't take a genius to work that out.
Don't do it.
Posted by: Brian, North London on 9:06am Thu 27 Mar 08
As someone living outside of Swindon and because of work i will not be able to attend Friday night games.
As someone living outside of Swindon and because of work i will not be able to attend Friday night games.
Posted by: 02hodgsol, mighty highworth! on 9:08am Thu 27 Mar 08
[quote][bold]old town red[/bold] wrote:
recent results indicate our forwards score more goals under floodlights than what they've managed to score on a Saturday. If we had as many clean sheets as blanks at the other end, we may well have still been contending for a play off place. I think some home games on a Friday is well worth a try, especially around the Xmas period where traditionally many fans miss the pre-Saturday to the holiday to go Xmas shopping[/quote] so this means were gunna score 3 against tranmere, doncaster and rovers!! WOOO comon town!
old town red wrote:
recent results indicate our forwards score more goals under floodlights than what they've managed to score on a Saturday. If we had as many clean sheets as blanks at the other end, we may well have still been contending for a play off place. I think some home games on a Friday is well worth a try, especially around the Xmas period where traditionally many fans miss the pre-Saturday to the holiday to go Xmas shopping
so this means were gunna score 3 against tranmere, doncaster and rovers!! WOOO comon town!
Posted by: old town red, swindon on 9:09am Thu 27 Mar 08
I believe STFC has given thought about the importance of not losing out of town support, I don't think their intentions would be for every game to be played on a Friday, moreover selective games. games where wo know attendance will be down i.e. (few visiting supporters coming with their team) or the pre-Xmas Saturday, these are dates where a Friday night could be tried and could bring in more people who do not have time on a Saturday due to work or playing local football.
I believe STFC has given thought about the importance of not losing out of town support, I don't think their intentions would be for every game to be played on a Friday, moreover selective games. games where wo know attendance will be down i.e. (few visiting supporters coming with their team) or the pre-Xmas Saturday, these are dates where a Friday night could be tried and could bring in more people who do not have time on a Saturday due to work or playing local football.
Posted by: Saint, chippenham on 9:10am Thu 27 Mar 08
At present I have to arrange shift changes to attend Tuesday evening games, and my colleagues are very helpful in doing this, but I can't see them giving up their long weekend to help me attend on a Friday night, and as a long standing season ticket holder I feel that I am being sh*t on (again) for paying my money up front. Apart from the football that we are playing at present, it is yet another thing I would need to think about in renewing it next season. I say NO - football is for Saturday afternoons !!
At present I have to arrange shift changes to attend Tuesday evening games, and my colleagues are very helpful in doing this, but I can't see them giving up their long weekend to help me attend on a Friday night, and as a long standing season ticket holder I feel that I am being sh*t on (again) for paying my money up front. Apart from the football that we are playing at present, it is yet another thing I would need to think about in renewing it next season. I say NO - football is for Saturday afternoons !!
Posted by: pjarvo, swindon on 9:11am Thu 27 Mar 08
what about the youngsters who go to bed at 7 or 8?.
less away supporters.
the people who go up town drinking friday nights.
out of town supporters who finish work at 5.
people who work shifts eg.. 2 til 10.
the cost of playing most games under floodlights.
these are all things to consider.
IMO attendances would be down.
what about the youngsters who go to bed at 7 or 8?.
less away supporters.
the people who go up town drinking friday nights.
out of town supporters who finish work at 5.
people who work shifts eg.. 2 til 10.
the cost of playing most games under floodlights.
these are all things to consider.
IMO attendances would be down.
Posted by: old town red, swindon on 9:20am Thu 27 Mar 08
hodgsol : I'll settle for 2 goals each for these games. I do think they are going to bag a couple of braces (win or lose). Why they can't do it on a Saturday? can't say, maybe they eat the wrong stuff at lunch, need to give them spinach or something with iron to build them up to last 90 minutes.
hodgsol : I'll settle for 2 goals each for these games. I do think they are going to bag a couple of braces (win or lose). Why they can't do it on a Saturday? can't say, maybe they eat the wrong stuff at lunch, need to give them spinach or something with iron to build them up to last 90 minutes.
Posted by: A Gents Home, Swindon on 9:48am Thu 27 Mar 08
This is a ploy by parties (who shall remain nameless) to avoid getting thrashed at darts on a saturday morning, no more, no less!
This is a ploy by parties (who shall remain nameless) to avoid getting thrashed at darts on a saturday morning, no more, no less!
Posted by: OldTown, Old Town on 9:52am Thu 27 Mar 08
listen to all you doom and gloom merchants !
Friday night games have PROVEN to increase attendances - not take them down.
Tranmere DO NOT just do this because of Liverpool and Everton - this weekend we play Tranmere on a Friday night - the Merseyside derby is not until Sunday - so that argument is dead in the water....
Why not actually think positively about something for a change ?
We have owners and a board who are ambitious and want to do something that may attract new supporters. They also want to engage with the community. They also want to make sure the "back end" of the football club is right.
This time last season we almost did not have a club to support - now within a couple of months the manager is wrong, the tactics are wrong, the board are wrong to suggest a little change - did any of you REALLY think this was going to be a promotion season ? If so you need your heads examined !
STABILITY - for the first time in years - we are not used to that word are we ?
Let's stop moaning and actually start supporting !
listen to all you doom and gloom merchants !
Friday night games have PROVEN to increase attendances - not take them down.
Tranmere DO NOT just do this because of Liverpool and Everton - this weekend we play Tranmere on a Friday night - the Merseyside derby is not until Sunday - so that argument is dead in the water....
Why not actually think positively about something for a change ?
We have owners and a board who are ambitious and want to do something that may attract new supporters. They also want to engage with the community. They also want to make sure the "back end" of the football club is right.
This time last season we almost did not have a club to support - now within a couple of months the manager is wrong, the tactics are wrong, the board are wrong to suggest a little change - did any of you REALLY think this was going to be a promotion season ? If so you need your heads examined !
STABILITY - for the first time in years - we are not used to that word are we ?
Let's stop moaning and actually start supporting !
Posted by: MITTED, Swindon on 10:06am Thu 27 Mar 08
This is a stupid idea. The Tranmere analogy is historically based on competing with Liverpool and Everton from a time when Tranmere played all their home games on a friday night and is therefore flawed in comparing with STFC's situation. If the Board do choose to go with it, they better make their minds up BEFORE season tickets go on sale. They may gain some extra season ticket holders but they will also lose loyal supporters, including me (and ergo my kids) because friday night is not an option. It is also inconsiderate to away supporters - just see how few Town fans will travel tonight in comparison to the numbers that would have travelled for a saturday 3pm fixture. That adversely affects the atmosphere.
This is a stupid idea. The Tranmere analogy is historically based on competing with Liverpool and Everton from a time when Tranmere played all their home games on a friday night and is therefore flawed in comparing with STFC's situation. If the Board do choose to go with it, they better make their minds up BEFORE season tickets go on sale. They may gain some extra season ticket holders but they will also lose loyal supporters, including me (and ergo my kids) because friday night is not an option. It is also inconsiderate to away supporters - just see how few Town fans will travel tonight in comparison to the numbers that would have travelled for a saturday 3pm fixture. That adversely affects the atmosphere.
Posted by: OldTown, Old Town on 10:19am Thu 27 Mar 08
I personally think evening games have a MUCH better atmosphere than afternoon games.
No-one here is saying this will be EVERY home game - but maybe a couple to see what the reaction is and how it works.
Sounds like sound ideas to me - not stupid ones.....
I personally think evening games have a MUCH better atmosphere than afternoon games.
No-one here is saying this will be EVERY home game - but maybe a couple to see what the reaction is and how it works.
Sounds like sound ideas to me - not stupid ones.....
Posted by: stickybeak, . on 10:32am Thu 27 Mar 08
OldTown, this isn't moaning. It's called giving feedback. The club have put the idea out there and we are giving our opinion. If the number of new fans the club would attract outstrips the number of lost fans they will probably do it. How are they going to know if they aren't told.
As for Tranmere, yes it is to avoid clashes. In reality some fixtures do. Some don't.
OldTown, this isn't moaning. It's called giving feedback. The club have put the idea out there and we are giving our opinion. If the number of new fans the club would attract outstrips the number of lost fans they will probably do it. How are they going to know if they aren't told.
As for Tranmere, yes it is to avoid clashes. In reality some fixtures do. Some don't.
Posted by: Time_waits_for_no_ma
n, Swindon on 10:32am Thu 27 Mar 08
If there is a mid week match ie Tuesday isn't that going to be tight if playing again on the Friday. I like the idea of Friday evening though. Beats the tour of Asda any day.
If there is a mid week match ie Tuesday isn't that going to be tight if playing again on the Friday. I like the idea of Friday evening though. Beats the tour of Asda any day.
Posted by: Born@Lyneham, Chilterns on 10:34am Thu 27 Mar 08
Oh for fck sake, respect the history and traditions of football, Sat afternoon at 3 pm please. Give us entertaining football with the buzz of success and the fans will flood back. Now that is not easy I know, but concentrate on that please.
Oh for fck sake, respect the history and traditions of football, Sat afternoon at 3 pm please. Give us entertaining football with the buzz of success and the fans will flood back. Now that is not easy I know, but concentrate on that please.
Posted by: RJack, Swindon on 10:43am Thu 27 Mar 08
No way. I always looked forward to Saturday afternoons as a lad going to footy with my Dad & Grandad it was such a great feeling. Now i go to the game with my son & i hope in generations go by this carries forward. The game has changed so much over the years lets not ruin it by taking away what saturday afternoons were meant to be for.
No way. I always looked forward to Saturday afternoons as a lad going to footy with my Dad & Grandad it was such a great feeling. Now i go to the game with my son & i hope in generations go by this carries forward. The game has changed so much over the years lets not ruin it by taking away what saturday afternoons were meant to be for.
Posted by: stfcgirlie, swindon on 10:45am Thu 27 Mar 08
Hey I've got an idea - what about being entertained by good football - not changing games to Friday nights. Maybe an occasional Friday game might be ok, but thats all. Saturday afternoons were made for football.
Hey I've got an idea - what about being entertained by good football - not changing games to Friday nights. Maybe an occasional Friday game might be ok, but thats all. Saturday afternoons were made for football.
Posted by: pjarvo, swindon on 10:49am Thu 27 Mar 08
[quote][bold]OldTown[/bold] wrote:
listen to all you doom and gloom merchants ! Friday night games have PROVEN to increase attendances - not take them down. Tranmere DO NOT just do this because of Liverpool and Everton - this weekend we play Tranmere on a Friday night - the Merseyside derby is not until Sunday - so that argument is dead in the water.... Why not actually think positively about something for a change ? We have owners and a board who are ambitious and want to do something that may attract new supporters. They also want to engage with the community. They also want to make sure the "back end" of the football club is right. This time last season we almost did not have a club to support - now within a couple of months the manager is wrong, the tactics are wrong, the board are wrong to suggest a little change - did any of you REALLY think this was going to be a promotion season ? If so you need your heads examined ! STABILITY - for the first time in years - we are not used to that word are we ? Let's stop moaning and actually start supporting ![/quote] not moaning just concerned.
im a season ticket holder and work shifts.so me renewing my ticket hinges on this decision.
for midweek games i usually book half days holiday,but cant afford to do this every other week.
OldTown wrote:
listen to all you doom and gloom merchants ! Friday night games have PROVEN to increase attendances - not take them down. Tranmere DO NOT just do this because of Liverpool and Everton - this weekend we play Tranmere on a Friday night - the Merseyside derby is not until Sunday - so that argument is dead in the water.... Why not actually think positively about something for a change ? We have owners and a board who are ambitious and want to do something that may attract new supporters. They also want to engage with the community. They also want to make sure the "back end" of the football club is right. This time last season we almost did not have a club to support - now within a couple of months the manager is wrong, the tactics are wrong, the board are wrong to suggest a little change - did any of you REALLY think this was going to be a promotion season ? If so you need your heads examined ! STABILITY - for the first time in years - we are not used to that word are we ? Let's stop moaning and actually start supporting !
not moaning just concerned.
im a season ticket holder and work shifts.so me renewing my ticket hinges on this decision.
for midweek games i usually book half days holiday,but cant afford to do this every other week.
Posted by: stfcgirlie, swindon on 10:52am Thu 27 Mar 08
In the second paragraph of this article it states "In a bid to increase attendances for the 2008/9 campaign and generate a HOSTILE home atmosphere..." I'm sure HOSTILE means warlike, antagonistic, and unfriendly. Is that really what they want???
In the second paragraph of this article it states "In a bid to increase attendances for the 2008/9 campaign and generate a HOSTILE home atmosphere..." I'm sure HOSTILE means warlike, antagonistic, and unfriendly. Is that really what they want???
Posted by: swindon1969 on 10:52am Thu 27 Mar 08
I am not opposed to the idea,BUT what about those that live miles away,WHAT time do you think that they would get back on a friday night,after the match???they'll be too knackerd to play for their local team.
I am not opposed to the idea,BUT what about those that live miles away,WHAT time do you think that they would get back on a friday night,after the match???they'll be too knackerd to play for their local team.
Posted by: OldTown, Old Town on 10:53am Thu 27 Mar 08
And no-one is asking you too...
Sorry but "tradition" is not everything - a successful football club is every bit as important...
for 2-3 games a season I think this is a GREAT idea - and I think a lot of people will be too...
And no-one is asking you too...
Sorry but "tradition" is not everything - a successful football club is every bit as important...
for 2-3 games a season I think this is a GREAT idea - and I think a lot of people will be too...
Posted by: stfc4eva, swindon on 11:00am Thu 27 Mar 08
I thought the previous board came up with stupid plans this one is mad as hell. I can't come to friday games so therefore I won't be coming to any games on friday night. Our players look sleepy on saturday afternnoon's let alone night games every other week or twice a week depending on the fixture list. Best thing to do with this plan is bin it.
I thought the previous board came up with stupid plans this one is mad as hell. I can't come to friday games so therefore I won't be coming to any games on friday night. Our players look sleepy on saturday afternnoon's let alone night games every other week or twice a week depending on the fixture list. Best thing to do with this plan is bin it.
Posted by: stfc4eva, swindon on 11:03am Thu 27 Mar 08
I thought the previous board came up with stupid plans this one is mad as hell. I can't come to friday games so therefore I won't be coming to any games on friday night. Our players look sleepy on saturday afternnoon's let alone night games every other week or twice a week depending on the fixture list. Best thing to do with this plan is bin it.
I thought the previous board came up with stupid plans this one is mad as hell. I can't come to friday games so therefore I won't be coming to any games on friday night. Our players look sleepy on saturday afternnoon's let alone night games every other week or twice a week depending on the fixture list. Best thing to do with this plan is bin it.
Posted by: Hertz, swindon on 11:04am Thu 27 Mar 08
Morning all , I personally like the tier system that Forest has in place , categorise the games by the likely outcome of attracting good gates and adjust the price accordingly , sometimes they get it wrong i.e the Forast Carlisle game was never forecast to be a big crowd puller so they placed it low category low price , they got 28k supporters because Carlisle shocked everyone and it became a top of the divvie clash , it makes it more attractive to the family man especially around Xmas 4 games adult + kiddies knocks about 200 pounds out of the family budget , garde the games sell more tkts get same gate receipts but sell more from the kiosks etc .
I also like an evening game it has a special feel about it but even these could be graded . Bigger gates better atmosphere , better footie by better players , ultimately you could say "graded games make finer players"
Morning all , I personally like the tier system that Forest has in place , categorise the games by the likely outcome of attracting good gates and adjust the price accordingly , sometimes they get it wrong i.e the Forast Carlisle game was never forecast to be a big crowd puller so they placed it low category low price , they got 28k supporters because Carlisle shocked everyone and it became a top of the divvie clash , it makes it more attractive to the family man especially around Xmas 4 games adult + kiddies knocks about 200 pounds out of the family budget , garde the games sell more tkts get same gate receipts but sell more from the kiosks etc .
I also like an evening game it has a special feel about it but even these could be graded . Bigger gates better atmosphere , better footie by better players , ultimately you could say "graded games make finer players"
Posted by: stfclondon on 11:06am Thu 27 Mar 08
[quote][bold]stfcgirlie[/bold] wrote:
In the second paragraph of this article it states "In a bid to increase attendances for the 2008/9 campaign and generate a HOSTILE home atmosphere..." I'm sure HOSTILE means warlike, antagonistic, and unfriendly. Is that really what they want???[/quote] Sounds good to me. Football's gone soft.
Friday night home games wouldn't be ideal for me, but wouldn't be a major problem if it was only once or twice a season. As a traditionalist, I want to see the vast majority of games kicking off at 3pm on a Saturday.
It's already been said, but the best way to improve attendances is to play good football. Easy.
stfcgirlie wrote:
In the second paragraph of this article it states "In a bid to increase attendances for the 2008/9 campaign and generate a HOSTILE home atmosphere..." I'm sure HOSTILE means warlike, antagonistic, and unfriendly. Is that really what they want???
Sounds good to me. Football's gone soft.
Friday night home games wouldn't be ideal for me, but wouldn't be a major problem if it was only once or twice a season. As a traditionalist, I want to see the vast majority of games kicking off at 3pm on a Saturday.
It's already been said, but the best way to improve attendances is to play good football. Easy.
Posted by: bullethead, Swindon on 11:10am Thu 27 Mar 08
I'm all for a few games on a friday evening, quite often busy doing other stuff at weekends so it'll work for me. As for the family side of things, it's not a school night so I'll have no problem taking the kids.
One other thing to add, I think it's great we now have a board looking into these sort of things, I'm impressed with everything they have done so far and before anyone else mentions the Malpas appointment I'm happy to back their judgement on that one too.
I'm all for a few games on a friday evening, quite often busy doing other stuff at weekends so it'll work for me. As for the family side of things, it's not a school night so I'll have no problem taking the kids.
One other thing to add, I think it's great we now have a board looking into these sort of things, I'm impressed with everything they have done so far and before anyone else mentions the Malpas appointment I'm happy to back their judgement on that one too.
Posted by: Wantage1, Wantage on 11:39am Thu 27 Mar 08
This board inspired speculation is just an attempt to divert fan's attention away from the current crisis at the club.
But for the record, absolutely NO ! - a mix of midweek games and weekends continues to be the best option. That's why 99% of clubs do it !
It will have no impact on attendances, AF getting his act together re the current problems will.
This board inspired speculation is just an attempt to divert fan's attention away from the current crisis at the club.
But for the record, absolutely NO ! - a mix of midweek games and weekends continues to be the best option. That's why 99% of clubs do it !
It will have no impact on attendances, AF getting his act together re the current problems will.
Posted by: Peter Wilson, Wantage on 11:39am Thu 27 Mar 08
Firstly it’s refreshing that our new owners are not only looking at different ideas to try to improve the attendances, but also throwing ideas into the open and gauging the fans’ feedback. The previous incumbents would’ve just implemented this and bugger to the consequences.
I don't object particularly if the club try out a couple of Friday night games to see what happens, but I think that the trick for this idea to largely be accepted depends on which games and how many.
Swindon have a large out-of-town support and I think that if this was done on a regular basis then it may have a significant impact on those fans attending.
Not only is travelling either by road or rail on a Friday night generally a nightmare, but in my case, work and social commitments would make attendance far more difficult.
I have season ticket on acceptance that I will probably miss 1-2 Saturday games a season which still makes it good value, however Friday night games would probably mean I will miss 7-8 games a season so having a ST becomes redundant.
Personally I think there's better ways of improving attendances without potentially alienating some of those fans that are already here.
Firstly it’s refreshing that our new owners are not only looking at different ideas to try to improve the attendances, but also throwing ideas into the open and gauging the fans’ feedback. The previous incumbents would’ve just implemented this and bugger to the consequences.
I don't object particularly if the club try out a couple of Friday night games to see what happens, but I think that the trick for this idea to largely be accepted depends on which games and how many.
Swindon have a large out-of-town support and I think that if this was done on a regular basis then it may have a significant impact on those fans attending.
Not only is travelling either by road or rail on a Friday night generally a nightmare, but in my case, work and social commitments would make attendance far more difficult.
I have season ticket on acceptance that I will probably miss 1-2 Saturday games a season which still makes it good value, however Friday night games would probably mean I will miss 7-8 games a season so having a ST becomes redundant.
Personally I think there's better ways of improving attendances without potentially alienating some of those fans that are already here.
Posted by: pjarvo, swindon on 12:01pm Thu 27 Mar 08
great post mr wilson.
ill 2nd that.
great post mr wilson.
ill 2nd that.
Posted by: adystfc, Gloucester on 12:23pm Thu 27 Mar 08
We also used to play on Sunday afternoons occasionally as well in the late 1980's - how about trying some Sunday afternoons instead (or as well?)
We also used to play on Sunday afternoons occasionally as well in the late 1980's - how about trying some Sunday afternoons instead (or as well?)
Posted by: CartertonRed, Carterton on 12:31pm Thu 27 Mar 08
Its good to see the board asking the fans' opinion. I live out of town and work in Stroud so it is a real rush to get home in time to eat/change and travel to footie. Occasionally yes but generally it would be easier for those not living in Swindon to stick with Saturdays. Also, as adystfc says above, what would be wrong with trying the odd Sunday?
Its good to see the board asking the fans' opinion. I live out of town and work in Stroud so it is a real rush to get home in time to eat/change and travel to footie. Occasionally yes but generally it would be easier for those not living in Swindon to stick with Saturdays. Also, as adystfc says above, what would be wrong with trying the odd Sunday?
Posted by: Time_waits_for_no_ma
n, Swindon on 12:35pm Thu 27 Mar 08
[quote][bold]adystfc[/bold] wrote:
We also used to play on Sunday afternoons occasionally as well in the late 1980's - how about trying some Sunday afternoons instead (or as well?)[/quote] I went once to a F League match in Marseille France and they kicked off at 20.45 on Sunday evening - seemed weird to but it was good sized crowd.
adystfc wrote:
We also used to play on Sunday afternoons occasionally as well in the late 1980's - how about trying some Sunday afternoons instead (or as well?)
I went once to a F League match in Marseille France and they kicked off at 20.45 on Sunday evening - seemed weird to but it was good sized crowd.
Posted by: Reading Red, Reading on 12:35pm Thu 27 Mar 08
Friday, Saturday, Monday morning, Thurs lunch time..... the day and time is irrelevant. The STFC attendances are driven by 1) our league position and how we’re playing and 2) the opposition.
For Friday fixtures, yes we’ll gain fans but we’ll also loose fans. It would be good to maybe have one or two Fri games but I cannot see it bringing in the £millions this club needs or creating a ‘hostile’ atmosphere. Finally, if we do play a game on a Fri, please ensure it’s against a club we played this season on a Sat, that way we can benchmark the effect....
Friday, Saturday, Monday morning, Thurs lunch time..... the day and time is irrelevant. The STFC attendances are driven by 1) our league position and how we’re playing and 2) the opposition.
For Friday fixtures, yes we’ll gain fans but we’ll also loose fans. It would be good to maybe have one or two Fri games but I cannot see it bringing in the £millions this club needs or creating a ‘hostile’ atmosphere. Finally, if we do play a game on a Fri, please ensure it’s against a club we played this season on a Sat, that way we can benchmark the effect....
Posted by: Time_waits_for_no_ma
n, Swindon on 12:37pm Thu 27 Mar 08
[quote][bold]adystfc[/bold] wrote:
We also used to play on Sunday afternoons occasionally as well in the late 1980's - how about trying some Sunday afternoons instead (or as well?)[/quote] I went once to a F League match in Marseille France and they kicked off at 20.45 on Sunday evening - seemed weird to but it was good sized crowd.
adystfc wrote:
We also used to play on Sunday afternoons occasionally as well in the late 1980's - how about trying some Sunday afternoons instead (or as well?)
I went once to a F League match in Marseille France and they kicked off at 20.45 on Sunday evening - seemed weird to but it was good sized crowd.
Posted by: Time_waits_for_no_ma
n, Swindon on 12:43pm Thu 27 Mar 08
Double entry sorry about that - tip: don't refresh the webpage by backspace /refresh
Double entry sorry about that - tip: don't refresh the webpage by backspace /refresh
Posted by: feed the coor!, Aldershot on 1:24pm Thu 27 Mar 08
I think its a nice idea that should be welcomed bu supporters. It is good to see the board thinking of new ideas and letting the supporters of their possible intentions. I think there would be no harm in experimenting with this idea, and if succesful implementing it.
There are two sides, yes it could lose fans playing the football on friday nights, but also could gain some by people having commitments on the weekend.
I think that everyone is entitled to their opinion but i dont think people should be slating it without even been tested. Lets just see what happens, and welcome the boards suggestions.
I think its a nice idea that should be welcomed bu supporters. It is good to see the board thinking of new ideas and letting the supporters of their possible intentions. I think there would be no harm in experimenting with this idea, and if succesful implementing it.
There are two sides, yes it could lose fans playing the football on friday nights, but also could gain some by people having commitments on the weekend.
I think that everyone is entitled to their opinion but i dont think people should be slating it without even been tested. Lets just see what happens, and welcome the boards suggestions.
Posted by: Phil_S, Chippenham on 1:25pm Thu 27 Mar 08
The board are right to explore the option, but I don't think it will improve attendances, quite the reverse.
STFC, have a large out of town support base, who would all end up having to fight through the traffic to get to, & in to Swindon on a Friday night. Many Youngsters would not be able to attend. I would suggest that the numbers adversely affected would be far higher than the numbers committed to play themselves on a Saturday. (What about my commitment to the pub on a friday too )It would also mean a big drop in away support. Look at the attendances for mid week it wouldn't be much higher.
A far better idea would be to explore playing games on a Sunday afternoon
The board are right to explore the option, but I don't think it will improve attendances, quite the reverse.
STFC, have a large out of town support base, who would all end up having to fight through the traffic to get to, & in to Swindon on a Friday night. Many Youngsters would not be able to attend. I would suggest that the numbers adversely affected would be far higher than the numbers committed to play themselves on a Saturday. (What about my commitment to the pub on a friday too )It would also mean a big drop in away support. Look at the attendances for mid week it wouldn't be much higher.
A far better idea would be to explore playing games on a Sunday afternoon
Posted by: BWB, SWINDON on 1:37pm Thu 27 Mar 08
OK In the summer,but what about winter.
Dark nights,and having to use stadium
lights.
Would the club be able to afford the electricity bill.
Or will that go on the monies owed list?.
OK In the summer,but what about winter.
Dark nights,and having to use stadium
lights.
Would the club be able to afford the electricity bill.
Or will that go on the monies owed list?.
Posted by: ianswindon, swindon on 1:38pm Thu 27 Mar 08
to increase attendances you need to be winning games,to win games you need a decent team,to have a decent team you need the manager to get the best out of them,that's where it stops with swindon,sturrock got his players to play for him,MM doesn't,if he doesn't,with the 9 games remaining if we dont get at least 15 points,he should resign and go manage gretna....
to increase attendances you need to be winning games,to win games you need a decent team,to have a decent team you need the manager to get the best out of them,that's where it stops with swindon,sturrock got his players to play for him,MM doesn't,if he doesn't,with the 9 games remaining if we dont get at least 15 points,he should resign and go manage gretna....
Posted by: Paul b, Didcot on 2:12pm Thu 27 Mar 08
Get a decent manager- the squad playin ghalf decent football this will increase gates.
You cannot compare us to Tranmere- they do it to avoid clashing withLiverpool/Everto
n
Get a decent manager- the squad playin ghalf decent football this will increase gates.
You cannot compare us to Tranmere- they do it to avoid clashing withLiverpool/Everto
n
Posted by: Hertz, swindon on 2:21pm Thu 27 Mar 08
BWB on a miserable winters afternoon I think you will find the lights are on all afternoon anyway so no savings to be had there .
BWB on a miserable winters afternoon I think you will find the lights are on all afternoon anyway so no savings to be had there .
Posted by: Harry Potter, Swindon on 2:47pm Thu 27 Mar 08
Nice to know the board are investigating initiatives to increase attendances, however Friday night footy is clearly a non-starter. Forget it and move on.
Nice to know the board are investigating initiatives to increase attendances, however Friday night footy is clearly a non-starter. Forget it and move on.
Posted by: SwindonRobin*, Swindon on 2:53pm Thu 27 Mar 08
How on earth would it benefit us? I can only see negative outcomes to be honest...attendances will go down. There's no need for us to do it. It's a case of trying to fix things that aren't broken...
How on earth would it benefit us? I can only see negative outcomes to be honest...attendances will go down. There's no need for us to do it. It's a case of trying to fix things that aren't broken...
Posted by: clive elliott, bradford on 2:59pm Thu 27 Mar 08
[quote][bold]M Mack[/bold] wrote:
If you want to increase gates and revenue, then theres no need to move games to Friday evening, get a decent manager, play decent footy and I think you will notice a rise in gates and revenue. Not rocket science is it.[/quote] well said m.mack, i agree 100%
M Mack wrote:
If you want to increase gates and revenue, then theres no need to move games to Friday evening, get a decent manager, play decent footy and I think you will notice a rise in gates and revenue. Not rocket science is it.
well said m.mack, i agree 100%
Posted by: Redmoonraker, oxon on 3:14pm Thu 27 Mar 08
I dont understand why so many are against this idea. Its a great idea and its only likely to be for a few games a season anyhow. Its a known fact evening games have a better atmospere about them, but Id personally prefer more midweek evening games. Also what about having some games on a saturday evening aswell?
[bold]PS there wont no promotion push next season under Malpas we will need to have changed managers for that to happen[/bold]
I dont understand why so many are against this idea. Its a great idea and its only likely to be for a few games a season anyhow. Its a known fact evening games have a better atmospere about them, but Id personally prefer more midweek evening games. Also what about having some games on a saturday evening aswell?
PS there wont no promotion push next season under Malpas we will need to have changed managers for that to happen Posted by: Saint, chippenham on 3:19pm Thu 27 Mar 08
[quote][bold]ianswindon[/bold] wrote:
to increase attendances you need to be winning games,to win games you need a decent team,to have a decent team you need the manager to get the best out of them,that's where it stops with swindon,sturrock got his players to play for him,MM doesn't,if he doesn't,with the 9 games remaining if we dont get at least 15 points,he should resign and go manage gretna....[/quote] Have they squeezed another two games in this season? Are the Football League trying to ensure we get relegated or is MM manipulating the remaining fixtures in the hope of grabbing the points required to stay up?
ianswindon wrote:
to increase attendances you need to be winning games,to win games you need a decent team,to have a decent team you need the manager to get the best out of them,that's where it stops with swindon,sturrock got his players to play for him,MM doesn't,if he doesn't,with the 9 games remaining if we dont get at least 15 points,he should resign and go manage gretna....
Have they squeezed another two games in this season? Are the Football League trying to ensure we get relegated or is MM manipulating the remaining fixtures in the hope of grabbing the points required to stay up?
Posted by: SHARRON on 3:34pm Thu 27 Mar 08
a few games on a friday nite okay but lets not break tradition 3 pm footy on a saturday is wot most of us look forward to i know for a fact if they move all r games to a fri nite i wont be able to go not with working nites......so please stay with sat footy stfc
a few games on a friday nite okay but lets not break tradition 3 pm footy on a saturday is wot most of us look forward to i know for a fact if they move all r games to a fri nite i wont be able to go not with working nites......so please stay with sat footy stfc
Posted by: Harry Potter, Swindon on 3:38pm Thu 27 Mar 08
[quote][bold]CartertonRed[/bold] wrote:
Its good to see the board asking the fans' opinion. I live out of town and work in Stroud so it is a real rush to get home in time to eat/change and travel to footie. Occasionally yes but generally it would be easier for those not living in Swindon to stick with Saturdays. Also, as adystfc says above, what would be wrong with trying the odd Sunday?[/quote] Just a small point - How exactly are the board asking fans for their opinion by putting an article in the local rag telling everybody that are going to investigate ways to increase attendances for the 2008/09 campaign?
CartertonRed wrote:
Its good to see the board asking the fans' opinion. I live out of town and work in Stroud so it is a real rush to get home in time to eat/change and travel to footie. Occasionally yes but generally it would be easier for those not living in Swindon to stick with Saturdays. Also, as adystfc says above, what would be wrong with trying the odd Sunday?
Just a small point - How exactly are the board asking fans for their opinion by putting an article in the local rag telling everybody that are going to investigate ways to increase attendances for the 2008/09 campaign?
Posted by: mikeybacon, andover on 3:39pm Thu 27 Mar 08
do it!! save me and dad rushing round work, so we can make it
do it!! save me and dad rushing round work, so we can make it
Posted by: blobster, Bradford on Avon on 3:49pm Thu 27 Mar 08
I think this is a really good idea and I am some way away from Swindon
Saturday could then be devoted to golf and Sunday to walking the dog
Go for it guys
I think this is a really good idea and I am some way away from Swindon
Saturday could then be devoted to golf and Sunday to walking the dog
Go for it guys
Posted by: Peter Wilson, Wantage on 4:07pm Thu 27 Mar 08
[quote][bold]Harry Potter[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]CartertonRed[/bold] wrote:
Its good to see the board asking the fans' opinion. I live out of town and work in Stroud so it is a real rush to get home in time to eat/change and travel to footie. Occasionally yes but generally it would be easier for those not living in Swindon to stick with Saturdays. Also, as adystfc says above, what would be wrong with trying the odd Sunday?[/quote] Just a small point - How exactly are the board asking fans for their opinion by putting an article in the local rag telling everybody that are going to investigate ways to increase attendances for the 2008/09 campaign? [/quote] I think the point CartertonRed is making, is that they're not specifically asking for the fans' opinion as such, but the fact that an idea which is; “still at an embryonic stage” has been released to the local paper means the board are trying to gauge opinion (flying a kite if you like).
Jeremy Wray said at the last open meeting that the board read the fans forums so I think this is just a way of judging opinion on a new idea.
This is more obvious when you contrast it with the previous board who would have waited until season tickets were renewed and then announced Friday night games regardless, and any fans’ complaints would have been met with fingers in the ears and a; “la la la we can’t hear you” response. Think the Brunel FM contract.
Harry Potter wrote:
CartertonRed wrote:
Its good to see the board asking the fans' opinion. I live out of town and work in Stroud so it is a real rush to get home in time to eat/change and travel to footie. Occasionally yes but generally it would be easier for those not living in Swindon to stick with Saturdays. Also, as adystfc says above, what would be wrong with trying the odd Sunday?
Just a small point - How exactly are the board asking fans for their opinion by putting an article in the local rag telling everybody that are going to investigate ways to increase attendances for the 2008/09 campaign?
I think the point CartertonRed is making, is that they're not specifically asking for the fans' opinion as such, but the fact that an idea which is; “still at an embryonic stage” has been released to the local paper means the board are trying to gauge opinion (flying a kite if you like).
Jeremy Wray said at the last open meeting that the board read the fans forums so I think this is just a way of judging opinion on a new idea.
This is more obvious when you contrast it with the previous board who would have waited until season tickets were renewed and then announced Friday night games regardless, and any fans’ complaints would have been met with fingers in the ears and a; “la la la we can’t hear you” response. Think the Brunel FM contract.
Posted by: deep south red on 4:27pm Thu 27 Mar 08
I like the idea of some games on Friday evenings even though i live some distance away , it would help with the 2 saturdays at home on the trot and getting moaned at for taking the car when her indoors has got a hair appointment and i get it in the neck.I like the idea of some flexibility.
I like the idea of some games on Friday evenings even though i live some distance away , it would help with the 2 saturdays at home on the trot and getting moaned at for taking the car when her indoors has got a hair appointment and i get it in the neck.I like the idea of some flexibility.
Posted by: steve-o, Swindon on 4:29pm Thu 27 Mar 08
[quote][bold]Paul b[/bold] wrote:
Get a decent manager- the squad playin ghalf decent football this will increase gates. You cannot compare us to Tranmere- they do it to avoid clashing withLiverpool/Everto n[/quote] Totally agree mate, non starter then again will we get a say NAAAAAAAAAAAAA
Paul b wrote:
Get a decent manager- the squad playin ghalf decent football this will increase gates. You cannot compare us to Tranmere- they do it to avoid clashing withLiverpool/Everto n
Totally agree mate, non starter then again will we get a say NAAAAAAAAAAAAA
Posted by: danielread, Swindon/Bath on 4:41pm Thu 27 Mar 08
I would only liek to see one or two games a year on a friday night, When we use to play bristol city on friday nights it was always good fun because the ground had a bit more zip on it and atmosphere was good. However sitting in the cold is not fun! Plus we have no real reason to switch, tranmere and chester switched because liverpool and everton are close by. We have no other club taking attendances from us. I really don't think it'll make a difference. Results push the attendance up not the day of the week.
I would only liek to see one or two games a year on a friday night, When we use to play bristol city on friday nights it was always good fun because the ground had a bit more zip on it and atmosphere was good. However sitting in the cold is not fun! Plus we have no real reason to switch, tranmere and chester switched because liverpool and everton are close by. We have no other club taking attendances from us. I really don't think it'll make a difference. Results push the attendance up not the day of the week.
Posted by: ivan, Bath on 5:03pm Thu 27 Mar 08
I like the comments
from Hertz re forest and graded games.If the board tried a couple of friday games especially when Cheltenham or Newbury races were due on the Saturday or Bath Rugby
were playing this may incourage racing and rugby fans to come and watch the town if the football club did a reciprocal deal with these other venues and offered reduced ticket prices.
I like the comments
from Hertz re forest and graded games.If the board tried a couple of friday games especially when Cheltenham or Newbury races were due on the Saturday or Bath Rugby
were playing this may incourage racing and rugby fans to come and watch the town if the football club did a reciprocal deal with these other venues and offered reduced ticket prices.
Posted by: boo, swindon on 5:32pm Thu 27 Mar 08
[bold]WATCH OUT[/bold]
This is the plight of the board for us to play on a friday and bristol rovers to play on the county ground on a saturday, when they share our ground
WATCH OUT
This is the plight of the board for us to play on a friday and bristol rovers to play on the county ground on a saturday, when they share our ground
Posted by: boo, swindon on 5:41pm Thu 27 Mar 08
promotion under the [bold]grim reapper[/bold] , get rid of that [bold]muppet[/bold] and get kevin phillips in as player manager, he will score for fun and the gates will soar,and bristol rovers wont be able to play on our ground on a saturday, send them animals to cheltenham or better still iraq
promotion under the
grim reapper , get rid of that
muppet and get kevin phillips in as player manager, he will score for fun and the gates will soar,and bristol rovers wont be able to play on our ground on a saturday, send them animals to cheltenham or better still iraq
Posted by: boo, swindon on 5:54pm Thu 27 Mar 08
[quote][bold]pjarvo[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]OldTown[/bold] wrote: listen to all you doom and gloom merchants ! Friday night games have PROVEN to increase attendances - not take them down. Tranmere DO NOT just do this because of Liverpool and Everton - this weekend we play Tranmere on a Friday night - the Merseyside derby is not until Sunday - so that argument is dead in the water.... Why not actually think positively about something for a change ? We have owners and a board who are ambitious and want to do something that may attract new supporters. They also want to engage with the community. They also want to make sure the "back end" of the football club is right. This time last season we almost did not have a club to support - now within a couple of months the manager is wrong, the tactics are wrong, the board are wrong to suggest a little change - did any of you REALLY think this was going to be a promotion season ? If so you need your heads examined ! STABILITY - for the first time in years - we are not used to that word are we ? Let's stop moaning and actually start supporting ![/quote] not moaning just concerned. im a season ticket holder and work shifts.so me renewing my ticket hinges on this decision. for midweek games i usually book half days holiday,but cant afford to do this every other week.[/quote] STABILITY you say, we are talking relegation get the muppet out [bold]NOW[[/bold] bold]bold[/bold]
pjarvo wrote:
OldTown wrote: listen to all you doom and gloom merchants ! Friday night games have PROVEN to increase attendances - not take them down. Tranmere DO NOT just do this because of Liverpool and Everton - this weekend we play Tranmere on a Friday night - the Merseyside derby is not until Sunday - so that argument is dead in the water.... Why not actually think positively about something for a change ? We have owners and a board who are ambitious and want to do something that may attract new supporters. They also want to engage with the community. They also want to make sure the "back end" of the football club is right. This time last season we almost did not have a club to support - now within a couple of months the manager is wrong, the tactics are wrong, the board are wrong to suggest a little change - did any of you REALLY think this was going to be a promotion season ? If so you need your heads examined ! STABILITY - for the first time in years - we are not used to that word are we ? Let's stop moaning and actually start supporting !
not moaning just concerned. im a season ticket holder and work shifts.so me renewing my ticket hinges on this decision. for midweek games i usually book half days holiday,but cant afford to do this every other week.
STABILITY you say, we are talking relegation get the muppet out NOW bold]bold
Posted by: Stfc Romain, swindon on 6:05pm Thu 27 Mar 08
[quote][bold]boo[/bold] wrote:
[bold]WATCH OUT[/bold] This is the plight of the board for us to play on a friday and bristol rovers to play on the county ground on a saturday, when they share our ground[/quote] good shout.THAT CAN BE THE ONLY REASON THEY ARE EVEN THINKING ABOUY IT.ANYWAY SATURDAY WONT BE THE SAME WITH OUT ARE STFC PLAYING
boo wrote:
WATCH OUT This is the plight of the board for us to play on a friday and bristol rovers to play on the county ground on a saturday, when they share our ground
good shout.THAT CAN BE THE ONLY REASON THEY ARE EVEN THINKING ABOUY IT.ANYWAY SATURDAY WONT BE THE SAME WITH OUT ARE STFC PLAYING
Posted by: SHEEPHEAD, SWINDON on 6:21pm Thu 27 Mar 08
As said in other comments.People do shifts.Others will not have time to get there after work.Younger fans would rather be out clubbing.To get fans back Change the manager,Drop the admission prices so more could afford to go.And if you want to change kick off times Kick off about 6.45 on a Sunday evening when nothing happens nothing on telly and football on sky is over.
As said in other comments.People do shifts.Others will not have time to get there after work.Younger fans would rather be out clubbing.To get fans back Change the manager,Drop the admission prices so more could afford to go.And if you want to change kick off times Kick off about 6.45 on a Sunday evening when nothing happens nothing on telly and football on sky is over.
Posted by: Loft Conversions, Swindon on 6:37pm Thu 27 Mar 08
NO NO NO! Football is a Saturday game. Friday night football is awful.
This would be a disaster and would not only serve to DECREASE attendances.
NO NO NO! Football is a Saturday game. Friday night football is awful.
This would be a disaster and would not only serve to DECREASE attendances.
Posted by: greenfield, swindon on 6:41pm Thu 27 Mar 08
Fridays evenings games at swindon, maybe 1 or 2, but surely SUNDAY would be a better option.
But as has been said, 1st you have to play attractive football, have a winning team and a manager who can manage.
You only have to look at the attendances that we were getting when we were successful under Lou Macari.
Sadly the way the team are playing, do not warrant masses turning up to watch, whenever the town play.
Fridays evenings games at swindon, maybe 1 or 2, but surely SUNDAY would be a better option.
But as has been said, 1st you have to play attractive football, have a winning team and a manager who can manage.
You only have to look at the attendances that we were getting when we were successful under Lou Macari.
Sadly the way the team are playing, do not warrant masses turning up to watch, whenever the town play.
Posted by: TECHNORED, BATH on 7:01pm Thu 27 Mar 08
Saturday March 1st at home to Leeds attendance 13,270 Tue 4th March home to Huddersfield attendance 4,840 enough said
Saturday March 1st at home to Leeds attendance 13,270 Tue 4th March home to Huddersfield attendance 4,840 enough said
Posted by: ianswindon, swindon on 7:33pm Thu 27 Mar 08
well spotted!!! 7 games left not 9!!
well spotted!!! 7 games left not 9!!
Posted by: Andy, Misterton, Nr Yeovil on 7:41pm Thu 27 Mar 08
[quote][bold]stickybeak[/bold] wrote:
Nooooooooooo. Please no more than a few games if we have to go this route. Think of the numerous out of towners who work on Fridays. A few pints and the game is the staple football "experience". Not rush home from work, grab something quick to eat and rush to the game. I say that as someone who lives in Swindon.[/quote] Exactly, i get home from work at 5.15, its atleast a two hour drive from here, probably more during the friday night rush hour, i try to get to as many games as possible, but my fear is that we will have big games on fridays making it impossible for me to attend the best games of the season, leaving me with the likes of Northampton to fulfil my quota! Atlest i'd make it to huish park on time!
stickybeak wrote:
Nooooooooooo. Please no more than a few games if we have to go this route. Think of the numerous out of towners who work on Fridays. A few pints and the game is the staple football "experience". Not rush home from work, grab something quick to eat and rush to the game. I say that as someone who lives in Swindon.
Exactly, i get home from work at 5.15, its atleast a two hour drive from here, probably more during the friday night rush hour, i try to get to as many games as possible, but my fear is that we will have big games on fridays making it impossible for me to attend the best games of the season, leaving me with the likes of Northampton to fulfil my quota! Atlest i'd make it to huish park on time!
Posted by: penhill54, southampton on 7:58pm Thu 27 Mar 08
As an out of towner, there is no way I can leave work early enough for midweek games, let alone extra ones on a Friday. If the club feels it benefits them, that is their perogative, but it will mean extra matches that I cannot get to.
As an out of towner, there is no way I can leave work early enough for midweek games, let alone extra ones on a Friday. If the club feels it benefits them, that is their perogative, but it will mean extra matches that I cannot get to.
Posted by: CanadaSTFC, Ontario on 8:15pm Thu 27 Mar 08
Never hurts to try anything new. However, its proven a winning team gives a better league or league position, then much better attendances. Friday or Saturday will then make little difference.
Never hurts to try anything new. However, its proven a winning team gives a better league or league position, then much better attendances. Friday or Saturday will then make little difference.
Posted by: stfc4eva, swindon on 8:23pm Thu 27 Mar 08
I'm totally against friday night football at the CG, mind you if it's true what was said on points west tonight, that Town are in talks with Bristol Rovers to ground share next season. It's 100% Certain that I will boycott going to town games, with the crap being served up on the pitch at the moment a manager who hasn't got a clue, friday night football on the cards and top it all a possible ground share next season AF&CO honeymoon is over big time from my point of view.
I'm totally against friday night football at the CG, mind you if it's true what was said on points west tonight, that Town are in talks with Bristol Rovers to ground share next season. It's 100% Certain that I will boycott going to town games, with the crap being served up on the pitch at the moment a manager who hasn't got a clue, friday night football on the cards and top it all a possible ground share next season AF&CO honeymoon is over big time from my point of view.
Posted by: tractorboy, south bucks on 8:40pm Thu 27 Mar 08
It's a big NO for me, even if Malpas does manage to keep us up and then leaves .
There is no way on this earth that I will buy tickets for Friday night games.
It's quite obvious that the town board don't try to get down the M4 from London on a Friday or they would never , ever consider this hair brained scheme.
I fear that one way or another the May 3rd game against Millwall will be my last ever watching Swindon Town.
Sorry Mr Fitton you may have saved the club but you've lost another supporter.
It's a big NO for me, even if Malpas does manage to keep us up and then leaves .
There is no way on this earth that I will buy tickets for Friday night games.
It's quite obvious that the town board don't try to get down the M4 from London on a Friday or they would never , ever consider this hair brained scheme.
I fear that one way or another the May 3rd game against Millwall will be my last ever watching Swindon Town.
Sorry Mr Fitton you may have saved the club but you've lost another supporter.
Posted by: nelly180, Surrey on 8:49pm Thu 27 Mar 08
It's been said on many a post and i just wanted to add to it...How can Mr Watkins try making our club more of a "Family Club" when the numpty is thinking late night football???? Cut the prices bya couple of quid, get rid of the plum manager and think about how you can help the fans and not inder them.
It's been said on many a post and i just wanted to add to it...How can Mr Watkins try making our club more of a "Family Club" when the numpty is thinking late night football???? Cut the prices bya couple of quid, get rid of the plum manager and think about how you can help the fans and not inder them.
Posted by: tractorboy, south bucks on 9:01pm Thu 27 Mar 08
Good shout nelly
Posted by: steve, brentford on 9:07pm Thu 27 Mar 08
[quote][bold]tractorboy[/bold] wrote:
It's a big NO for me, even if Malpas does manage to keep us up and then leaves . There is no way on this earth that I will buy tickets for Friday night games. It's quite obvious that the town board don't try to get down the M4 from London on a Friday or they would never , ever consider this hair brained scheme. I fear that one way or another the May 3rd game against Millwall will be my last ever watching Swindon Town. Sorry Mr Fitton you may have saved the club but you've lost another supporter.[/quote] tractorboy ihope thats not the case im certain we cant afford to lose paying fans but M4 fri eve nightmare mate.
tractorboy wrote:
It's a big NO for me, even if Malpas does manage to keep us up and then leaves . There is no way on this earth that I will buy tickets for Friday night games. It's quite obvious that the town board don't try to get down the M4 from London on a Friday or they would never , ever consider this hair brained scheme. I fear that one way or another the May 3rd game against Millwall will be my last ever watching Swindon Town. Sorry Mr Fitton you may have saved the club but you've lost another supporter.
tractorboy ihope thats not the case im certain we cant afford to lose paying fans but M4 fri eve nightmare mate.
Posted by: SirReg, Swindon on 9:39pm Thu 27 Mar 08
Ridiculous. Have they forgotten the survey that showed a large proporton of fans live an hour or so from the ground. I work in London and get home to near Reading at 8.10 pm. I cannot be the only one. I am starting to think that this new Board seem very pleased with themselves and think they have lots of good ideas. Like Malpas. Oh well, I may start watching Aldershot...
Ridiculous. Have they forgotten the survey that showed a large proporton of fans live an hour or so from the ground. I work in London and get home to near Reading at 8.10 pm. I cannot be the only one. I am starting to think that this new Board seem very pleased with themselves and think they have lots of good ideas. Like Malpas. Oh well, I may start watching Aldershot...
Posted by: Disdain, Swindon on 9:43pm Thu 27 Mar 08
The main problem is if as you all say our fan base is outside Swindon. We need to attract the fans in Swindon and maybe this is an option. Perhaps do say 5 games on a Friday that would have been on Sat.
The main problem is if as you all say our fan base is outside Swindon. We need to attract the fans in Swindon and maybe this is an option. Perhaps do say 5 games on a Friday that would have been on Sat.
Posted by: tractorboy, south bucks on 9:53pm Thu 27 Mar 08
Currently I believe that about thirty per cent of Swindon Town fans live well out of town .
Can the club get another thirty per cent of local townies just to even the score.
And then if they want to increase the gates still have to find another 10% + on top .
The scheme is a no brainer and doomed to failure.
I have tonight emailed the club with my views, I suggest that everyone here who agrees with me does the same.
Football is Saturday at 3pm , T.V has already screwed that notion to the detriment of real fans . Television is the real reason football attendances are down , bring back the days when only the cup finals and internationals were screened.
Currently I believe that about thirty per cent of Swindon Town fans live well out of town .
Can the club get another thirty per cent of local townies just to even the score.
And then if they want to increase the gates still have to find another 10% + on top .
The scheme is a no brainer and doomed to failure.
I have tonight emailed the club with my views, I suggest that everyone here who agrees with me does the same.
Football is Saturday at 3pm , T.V has already screwed that notion to the detriment of real fans . Television is the real reason football attendances are down , bring back the days when only the cup finals and internationals were screened.
Posted by: josh_ maguire, braford on avon on 9:56pm Thu 27 Mar 08
I think that it is a good idea as some of the youth play footy on Sat afternoons so then they can go to the games!! I for one will be going to all the fri games bar tomorrow!! COOOMMMEEE ON YOOOOUUUU REEEEEDDDDDSSSSS
I think that it is a good idea as some of the youth play footy on Sat afternoons so then they can go to the games!! I for one will be going to all the fri games bar tomorrow!! COOOMMMEEE ON YOOOOUUUU REEEEEDDDDDSSSSS
Posted by: steve, brentford on 10:04pm Thu 27 Mar 08
[quote][bold]Disdain[/bold] wrote:
The main problem is if as you all say our fan base is outside Swindon. We need to attract the fans in Swindon and maybe this is an option. Perhaps do say 5 games on a Friday that would have been on Sat.[/quote] Disdain,a large number people not all of are fan base,also the club should always be looking to attract people from swindon ,most of us that support stfc that travel come from swindon originally.
Disdain wrote:
The main problem is if as you all say our fan base is outside Swindon. We need to attract the fans in Swindon and maybe this is an option. Perhaps do say 5 games on a Friday that would have been on Sat.
Disdain,a large number people not all of are fan base,also the club should always be looking to attract people from swindon ,most of us that support stfc that travel come from swindon originally.
Posted by: tractorboy, south bucks on 10:09pm Thu 27 Mar 08
Great if you live in Town Josh, but a third of us don't so you and the other 3500 should be able to pick your seats as there will be about 444 seats per person.
Actually the club could shut the Don Rogers stand to save on stewards and hired thugs + turnstile attendants. Wow the club will be quids in !!!!
Great if you live in Town Josh, but a third of us don't so you and the other 3500 should be able to pick your seats as there will be about 444 seats per person.
Actually the club could shut the Don Rogers stand to save on stewards and hired thugs + turnstile attendants. Wow the club will be quids in !!!!
Posted by: maddag, swindon on 10:55pm Thu 27 Mar 08
want to bring the gates back up THEN SLASH THE BLOODY ENTRANCE MONEY .I am disabled and a pensioner and at almost every other ground the conceccionary admission is around 10 pound for disabled and oaps . 2 games per week = 20 pound +
getting there programme etc another 10 that takes it up to 40 pound out of a pension of 85 pound
that is at 10 admission SWINDON last time I checked was at least 15 pound per game for the crap that is being dished up by the present shower
we seem to have moved forward from the previous Rouges that were running the club
but have gone backwards with the playing side of things sort it out please or not all the good work that has been done on the administration will make a scrap of difference
want to bring the gates back up THEN SLASH THE BLOODY ENTRANCE MONEY .I am disabled and a pensioner and at almost every other ground the conceccionary admission is around 10 pound for disabled and oaps . 2 games per week = 20 pound +
getting there programme etc another 10 that takes it up to 40 pound out of a pension of 85 pound
that is at 10 admission SWINDON last time I checked was at least 15 pound per game for the crap that is being dished up by the present shower
we seem to have moved forward from the previous Rouges that were running the club
but have gone backwards with the playing side of things sort it out please or not all the good work that has been done on the administration will make a scrap of difference
Posted by: JonnyRed, W.Berks on 1:27pm Fri 28 Mar 08
I think Friday night footy, on occassion, is great. Having two small children I can get them to bed, leave the wife to baby-sit and shoot over to Swindon to watch for the boys get stuffed without wasting a saturday. Some of us also have to work Saturdays and when not get grief form the wife for going to football when we should be spending "quality" time with them and the children so Friday night kills two birds with one stone.
I think Friday night footy, on occassion, is great. Having two small children I can get them to bed, leave the wife to baby-sit and shoot over to Swindon to watch for the boys get stuffed without wasting a saturday. Some of us also have to work Saturdays and when not get grief form the wife for going to football when we should be spending "quality" time with them and the children so Friday night kills two birds with one stone.
Posted by: colin.a, Northants on 9:40pm Fri 28 Mar 08
How's about Saturday evening kick offs. At least us out of town supporters, like myself, could get to the game for kick off time - not half way through the first half!
How's about Saturday evening kick offs. At least us out of town supporters, like myself, could get to the game for kick off time - not half way through the first half!
Posted by: colin.a, Northants on 9:56pm Fri 28 Mar 08
Totally agree with tractorboy. One game a week on Match of the Day, odd game of FA Cup & internationals. No live league matches and most of all no JOHN MOTSON! I hate his commentaries intensely!
TV has definately killed football for the lower league clubs. Get Rid of Sky!
Totally agree with tractorboy. One game a week on Match of the Day, odd game of FA Cup & internationals. No live league matches and most of all no JOHN MOTSON! I hate his commentaries intensely!
TV has definately killed football for the lower league clubs. Get Rid of Sky!
Posted by: millser, Newark on 10:20pm Fri 28 Mar 08
I bet one things for sure we won't be playing teams like Forest or Leeds on a Friday evening if we can play them at home on a Saturday! It will be commercial suicide otherwise given the loss of gate receipts from away fans that Town would suffer!
I bet one things for sure we won't be playing teams like Forest or Leeds on a Friday evening if we can play them at home
