It is apparent that this crop of pre-season games are not attractive enough to warrant the ticket prices fans are being asked to pay and as a result Hereford supporters are not turning up in significant numbers. Obviously the Club do not want to run these games at a loss but small crowds are not creating an atmosphere for those spectators who do come to watch.
To attract larger crowds maybe season ticket holders could be admitted free as a bonus to them for putting money up front. The Club could offer free admission for kids, or £1 for kids if accompanied by an adult who is paying.
No doubt it is hard to attract teams from higher in the pyramid to come and play the Bulls without some expense but maybe one match against a formidable opposition may be possible as were the games v Aston Villa and Arsenal U21/23s in previous pre seasons.
No doubt this year, unlike last year where we had a new manager and whole squad to attract interest, we have only a small number of new players to watch alongside a number of unnamed trialists.
Pre-season is mainly about fitness levels rather than competitive physical matches so it is a different atmosphere when watching. So I feel we can’t expect fans to fork out for higher priced tickets. Another attraction, say cut priced tickets or some special offer is required to get more fans to come.
In the recent past fans have responded to the clubs efforts to offer them a deal of some sort so maybe next year we ought to try something unique.
Naturally a few fans are on holiday or have other family commitments but I sense the Club have been disappointed somewhat with lower attendances at these games.
We can only hope that the fans are out in force versus South Shields, our first home league game, which I am sure they will be.
Steve Hughes – Halesowen Bull