Hmmmm.

[piearce9]

My cynicism went into overdrive at first, but I calmed down when I saw SFC's statement and the fact that the wider attendance is down. They've also named and shamed the council, which suggests it is out of their hands somewhat.

Agree on the other comments - people suggesting there'll be a mutiny but think it is what it is. I doubt that people will go to the effort of buying via Stourbr*dge to stand in the home end and watch.

It's a shame though as I think last year's Number 9s were the first year where the games went smoothly, well managed by both clubs, and the tw*ttery was very limited. Also - like it or loathe it - the derby has been a gerat showpiece for both clubs so it's not great for the fixture that the numbers will be limited.

PS- I had those photos of the bank shared with me last season (hence why I wore a safety harness), so it's not a new situation.

PPS- I'm listening to offers over £200 for my ticket

[lalas]

A live stream like Lowestoft did would be good but I understand that wouldn't be allowed as it's a Saturday?

[Josh1873]

No conspiracy here, but the issue with that shed has been there for well over a year and probably more. Why has it not been addressed sooner? How have they managed to get a safety certificate? It's all a bit farcical - whether the council is to blame, or not. There's been ample time to address the situation and come up with a better plan than 425 tickets. It just screams of total mis-management by the clowns.

It's a decent sum money that they're losing out on, and they've only themselves to blame. Serves them right.

[piearce9]

I suppose the other possibility (shoot me down) was that the fixture could have been reversed and we go to them later in the season when they'll have had chance to reduce their public liability insurance

[Josh1873]

I suppose the other possibility (shoot me down) was that the fixture could have been reversed and we go to them later in the season when they'll have had chance to reduce their public liability insurance

That's not a bad shout. I don't see why not, it makes sense and would avoid a number of disappointed fans. It wouldn't be the first time we've had to bail them out by reversing the fixture because they couldn't get their own house in order, would it?

[piearce9]

I suppose the other possibility (shoot me down) was that the fixture could have been reversed and we go to them later in the season when they'll have had chance to reduce their public liability insurance

That's not a bad shout. I don't see why not, it makes sense and would avoid a number of disappointed fans. It wouldn't be the first time we've had to bail them out by reversing the fixture because they couldn't get their own house in order, would it?

I'm fairly sure it would have been considered as an option. To be honest, even at 800 away fans it's still going to mean some people miss out. It's not easy being massive.

[Seamus]

I suppose the other possibility (shoot me down) was that the fixture could have been reversed and we go to them later in the season when they'll have had chance to reduce their public liability insurance

Taking that one step further would it not be feasible for Stourbr*dge to request that ‘their’ home fixture is played at the Grove. This need not impact the HTFC home game at the Grove which would proceed as normal. There is precedent of course with early FA Cup ties clashing with cricket requirements.

[drummyb]

The building site behind the stand, damaged the bank making it unsafe, and that stand was shut.

I dont think Stourbr*dge would purposely lose a lot of money for home advantage tbh. It is what it is. Not sure why its turning into a conspiracy theory on social media.

Disappointingly rational.
*banned*

Ah ok. But but but..... they have done it on purpose. I heard some of the Stour lot got jobs on the site, and dug it out with plastic spades from Margate. Just so we couldnt take many. My other mate Dave told me. So its true. The swine.

[YeltzDoc]

Much better. I will investigate the opportunities to have you Georged.

[HalesowenHarry]

The council have to sort that problem on the photo behind that stand. End of. It's their land! But don't let facts get in the way of the truth eh!