‘A Block Ultras’

[Phileas Fogg]

2 minutes ago, Betty Swallocks said:

So true unfortunately. Can’t be having a few working class kids making a racket……

I think the club see the likes of Reading as a good example to follow as one to emulate. They’d like us to be a fairly passive middle class supporter base who spend a great deal on merchandise and in the facilities.

Fortunately, we aren’t that sort of club and there is still desire to make AG noisy within the supporter base despite the club’s attempts to quash it.

There is room for all ‘types’ of supporter at AG and a good atmosphere helps the team. 

[Olé]

The stewards already expect to see season tickets / tickets when entering upper A/B blocks from the stairs even minutes before KO. This is the first season they've been doing it and it's a right pain in the proverbial.

[Mendip Broadwalk]

11 hours ago, Magger1 said:

I think it could work , it used to work well so fair play to youth and I’m right behind em 

It used to work in A block because it was empty and its wasnt ultra. We took over a block as there was frequently less than 10000 in the ground and it went from there to  A and B became the lads and casuals section.

[2015]

9 minutes ago, Phileas Fogg said:

I think the club see the likes of Reading as a good example to follow as one to emulate. They’d like us to be a fairly passive middle class supporter base who spend a great deal on merchandise and in the facilities.

Fortunately, we aren’t that sort of club and there is still desire to make AG noisy within the supporter base despite the club’s attempts to quash it.

There is room for all ‘types’ of supporter at AG and a good atmosphere helps the team. 

This is how I see the upper management's view of the club. I think they want the club to appeal to day trippers for extra revenue and income, but simply forget the majority of the hardcore support are quite vocal, from working class backgrounds. The club's hardcore fanbase is not made up of the prawn sandwich brigade.

Funnily enough the worse we do on the pitch the less likely day trippers come for a day out at the Football and the more likely the hardcore support will remain and therefore the atmosphere would likely improve, which is probably why the atmosphere vs Swansea was better than expected as ground likely full of hardcore City fans as opposed to day trippers looking to go to a local Championship match at a nice ground.

[Merrick's Marvels]

13 minutes ago, Three Lions said:

It used to work in A block because it was empty and its wasnt ultra. We took over a block as there was frequently less than 10000 in the ground and it went from there to  A and B became the lads and casuals section.

It's exactly what's needed.

But you've gone about it completely the wrong way. 

"An old bull and a young bull stood at the top of a field, looking down at a herd of cows. Come on, let's run down there and **** one of those cows, said the young un. No son, let's walk down there and **** em all".

That's what you should have done.   

Edited January 11, 2023 by Merrick's Marvels

[Mendip Broadwalk]

7 minutes ago, Merrick's Marvels said:

It's exactly what's needed.

But you've gone about it completely the wrong way. 

"An old bull and a young bull stood at the top of a field, looking down at a herd of cows. Come on, let's run down there and **** one of those cows, said the young un. No son, let's walk down there and **** em all".

That's what you should have done.   

I dont think these young bulls have any cows to lead mate. Unlike years ago where hundreds would go where they liked due to the shout in the Hen and Chicken. 

Edited January 11, 2023 by Three Lions

[Mr Popodopolous]

1 hour ago, Bristol Rob said:

Is it the club that relax the no-standing rule, or one of those health and safety groups that insist on some lights being left on during the game?

 

1 hour ago, Barrs Court Red said:

The same safe standing that was supposed to include the entire lower Dolman and upper South Stand?  While people wanted it, it was promised as part of the build, and was a key promise to rugby fans when the move to Ashton Gate was put forward. 

We don't know unless anyone on here has info to the contrary, what would have been deemed acceptable to the SAG and probably more football specific, the SGSA.

The club can promise it from their perspective but we don't know If standing up a side stand would have been deemed acceptable to said authorities.

[Dollymarie]

45 minutes ago, Olé said:

The stewards already expect to see season tickets / tickets when entering upper A/B blocks from the stairs even minutes before KO. This is the first season they've been doing it and it's a right pain in the proverbial.

I’ve had to show my ticket to get in “Section 82” since that area opened. Just saying  

[Wealwayseatcheese]

1 hour ago, Super said:

You simply can't stand in a seated area and block the views of people who have bought tickets already and want to sit.

Super, I know you cannot do that, they are not going to congregate in E34 to sit down and sing are they . I believe the aim is to replicate what happened on Sunday and that was stood for 90 minutes having banter with away fans . 

[Mr Popodopolous]

32 minutes ago, TomF said:

Reminds me of when the middle of the Atyeo split and H Block was created.  It did in some sense work well.  Not saying this A block idea is good or bad but the safety advisory group could very quickly close it down. I think some fans forget they dictate a lot of policy to the club that they either adhere to or risk having areas shut down.

I don't buy all this 'the atmosphere is poor because people are sat in x block' and because the club have sanitised the areas etc. It's because the football on display is uninspiring and has been for a number of years, it goes back to the end of the LJ era.  Remember when we were on a roll with GJ, Cotts and even those play off semi's with Wilson. The atmosphere all over the ground was good because the fans had something to get behind.  Improve the stuff on the pitch and the atmosphere will follow. 

I mostly agree with your 1st paragraph especially about what we have to adhere to. Big elephant in the room that some fans seem to be overlooking or pushing down a bit.

On the pitch can definitely influence it, even individual games e.g. v Watford as the players were visibly hard at it, crowd got into it and two fed off each other. Can think of other examples to the contrary- v Luton we were excellent in August, early goal and well on top- crowd were IMO pretty quiet considering. I do though it's something intangible think that some livelier fans in closer proximity to the away fans helps.

[Bristol Oil Services]

1 hour ago, Super said:

You simply can't stand in a seated area and block the views of people who have bought tickets already and want to sit.

"Ultras" can. And do.

[Mendip Broadwalk]

41 minutes ago, TomF said:

Reminds me of when the middle of the Atyeo split and H Block was created.  It did in some sense work well.  Not saying this A block idea is good or bad but the safety advisory group could very quickly close it down. I think some fans forget they dictate a lot of policy to the club that they either adhere to or risk having areas shut down.

I don't buy all this 'the atmosphere is poor because people are sat in x block' and because the club have sanitised the areas etc. It's because the football on display is uninspiring and has been for a number of years, it goes back to the end of the LJ era.  Remember when we were on a roll with GJ, Cotts and even those play off semi's with Wilson. The atmosphere all over the ground was good because the fans had something to get behind.  Improve the stuff on the pitch and the atmosphere will follow. 

Sitting or standing in a different area can alter how people feel. The feel and gloom of the East End did that. 

[CyderInACan]

9 minutes ago, Wealwayseatcheese said:

I believe the aim is to replicate what happened on Sunday and that was stood for 90 minutes having banter with away fans . 

So it's nothing to do with supporting the team, then. It's just a chance to be closer to the away fans and call them w*nkers. Mint. 

[NOTBLUE]

We’ll I’m getting a bit long in the tooth now,but have been considering moving back to A/B block,if others from the corner section want to move there in numbers all the better,now where did I store my Pringle jumpers and Los jeans.

[pongo88]

2 hours ago, lenred said:

Not being argumentative but why do fans need to ask the club where they sit? The club have done absolutely nothing to foster a good atmosphere so let the fans do it organically and as long as they aren’t hurting anyone there is no problem? 

They don’t need to ask the club where they can sit, provided they have a ticket for the seat they are sitting in. However, it’s probable those who move on Saturday will stand, blocking the view of those sitting. Result - lots of agro 

2 hours ago, Super said:

Surely the people already there can't choose who else are in there? As long as they are sat down and don't block view of others what harm are they doing?

See above - probability of standing v sitting = agro 

[The Nest Egg]

I did notice at the Swansea game that quite a few people left S82 at half time and joined A Block, which did help the atmosphere a lot (that and the fact we actually started playing football in the second half!)

I'm all for the idea and if anything would happily join them as its a nightmare getting tickets in S82 unless it's a cup game. 

[BUTOR]

I take all the points re policing, upsetting season ticket holders in A block (I am one and do enjoy my seat currently), but I guess the issue is we as a fan base have been met with brick walls and dismissiveness whenever the topic of atmosphere has been brought up in recent years. It’s a ‘there’s yer lot’ attitude regarding Section 82, I think the club may genuinely believe that they’ve gone above and beyond with that area to assist atmosphere, and I don’t really believe they’ve been sat around in candle lit rooms plotting how to rid the scallies for Barber coated Bears’ fans and make Ashton Gate a library. 

But… it has been their inability to listen to concerns around the atmosphere over the last few years that was inevitably going to lead to something like this at some point. I believe the last time it was brought up in an interview (around S82 expansion on RB) the chuckling line from Gould was ‘no, they’ll complain whatever we do’. 
 

The fanbase would not get anywhere going through official lines, their best hope is to organically arrange something, be a little persistent, yes probably upset a few, show what a difference it makes and work with the club there on after. The PR of banning hundreds of supporters or going way overboard to stop it, perhaps shutting down A Block, would be awful compared to simply listening to concerns. 

Edited January 11, 2023 by Bouncearoundtheground

[Open End Numb Legs]

I am also long in the tooth and used to get a buzz as a youngster, stood towards the south end of the enclosure listening to the chants behind the goal. I can remember though when some moved to the Dolman and to me it just seemed to dilute the atmosphere as the singing element was then split between the 2 parts of the ground.

Humble apologies for my ignorance in recent times but why were the singers moved to the corner after the redevelopment? It feels like somewhere you would place visiting fans.

[lenred]

8 minutes ago, pongo88 said:

They don’t need to ask the club where they can sit, provided they have a ticket for the seat they are sitting in. However, it’s probable those who move on Saturday will stand, blocking the view of those sitting. Result - lots of agro 

See above - probability of standing v sitting = agro 

When this was mooted a few days back i looked at the seats available just out of interest and there were hundreds.  Barely any taken at all. But get the point.  Hopefully it is respectful though of course and is carried out with a spirit of working together for the team who sure as heck could do with an improved atmosphere.   

[Phileas Fogg]

36 minutes ago, Mr Popodopolous said:

I mostly agree with your 1st paragraph especially about what we have to adhere to. Big elephant in the room that some fans seem to be overlooking or pushing down a bit.

On the pitch can definitely influence it, even individual games e.g. v Watford as the players were visibly hard at it, crowd got into it and two fed off each other. Can think of other examples to the contrary- v Luton we were excellent in August, early goal and well on top- crowd were IMO pretty quiet considering. I do though it's something intangible think that some livelier fans in closer proximity to the away fans helps.

Save yourself the aggro Mr. P, just assume when people write ‘the club’ they mean the whole organisation who influence things like this - inclusive of SAG. It’s just shorthand.

It’s not worth mansplaining the same point over and over.

Edited January 11, 2023 by Phileas Fogg

[IAmNick]

Looking forward to the "Can't create any noise in the Dolman, it's far too open. Why we're stuck up at the top where we can't even see the away fans is ridiculous. How are we meant to get the crowd going there? Give us a proper corner in our home end, City fans all around us, safe standing rails, and the club will start to see some atmosphere. We always used to be at the far side, why can't we go back there again??" threads in 2-3 years.

[Phileas Fogg]

Just now, IAmNick said:

Looking forward to the "Can't create any noise in the Dolman, it's far too open. Why we're stuck up at the top where we can't even see the away fans is ridiculous. How are we meant to get the crowd going there? Give us a proper corner in our home end, City fans all around us, safe standing rails, and the club will start to see some atmosphere. We always used to be at the far side, why can't we go back there again??" threads in 2-3 years.

I don’t think that’ll be the case. I’m convinced, like many clubs, interaction between home and away support is the main catalyst for atmosphere at AG, shortly followed by how the team is doing.

S82 being where it currently is, physically as far from the away support as possible, makes this impossible. Safe standing and a relaxed attitude to more boisterous support for that area is great - but the placement is wrong. 

Ideally you’d want a few sections of vocal support - so it could work a bit like the beacons of Gondor and atmosphere spreads around the ground. 

[Winterstoke toad]

3 minutes ago, IAmNick said:

Looking forward to the "Can't create any noise in the Dolman, it's far too open. Why we're stuck up at the top where we can't even see the away fans is ridiculous. How are we meant to get the crowd going there? Give us a proper corner in our home end, City fans all around us, safe standing rails, and the club will start to see some atmosphere. We always used to be at the far side, why can't we go back there again??" threads in 2-3 years.

None of that would happen if it was done properly. Since the rebuild everywhere the club has our louder fans has been either to small ( 1/3 of the atyeo ) or in a pointless place where you’ll never create atmosphere ( section 82)

E34 and even adding the section next to it would be perfect and stop our club from becoming a soulless pit like Wigan and reading (to be fair atm readings atmosphere is way better than ours since they’ve moved their fans )

[IAmNick]

  

7 minutes ago, Phileas Fogg said:

I don’t think that’ll be the case. I’m convinced, like many clubs, interaction between home and away support is the main catalyst for atmosphere at AG, shortly followed by how the team is doing.

S82 being where it currently is, physically as far from the away support as possible, makes this impossible. Safe standing and a relaxed attitude to more boisterous support for that area is great - but the placement is wrong. 

Ideally you’d want a few sections of vocal support - so it could work a bit like the beacons of Gondor and atmosphere spreads around the ground. 

Maybe - I'm not sure I buy it personally.

Isn't the north stand at Leeds opposite the away fans, and the Palace Holmsdale end at the opposite end for example?

Man Utd was a great atmosphere, as was Wolves that year and a few others. I think it's what happens on the pitch that drives it, not the ability to gurn at a bloke who's 20m away instead of 80m!

3 minutes ago, Winterstoke toad said:

None of that would happen if it was done properly. Since the rebuild everywhere the club has our louder fans has been either to small ( 1/3 of the atyeo ) or in a pointless place where you’ll never create atmosphere ( section 82)

E34 and even adding the section next to it would be perfect and stop our club from becoming a soulless pit like Wigan and reading (to be fair atm readings atmosphere is way better than ours since they’ve moved their fans )

I remember in the 15 years + I've been on this board complaints and arguments about atmosphere no matter where our fans where.

Back when they were in the East End it was endless. Multiple groups (netters who sang too fast for example and ruined it), the roof kept the noise in, and so on.

Maybe there are things we can do to encourage it, but I think it'll still be pretty shit until we start seeing change on the pitch. Maybe the location currently is poor, but the club have called it a singing section, put in rails now, allow unreserved seats, and so on - for some to imply they're working against it or hate it is ridiculous imo. They could do more of course though!

Edited January 11, 2023 by IAmNick

[Phileas Fogg]

1 minute ago, IAmNick said:

  

Maybe - I'm not sure I buy it personally.

Isn't the north stand at Leeds opposite the away fans, and the Palace Holmsdale end at the opposite end for example?

Man Utd was a great atmosphere, as was Wolves that year and a few others. I think it's what happens on the pitch that drives it, not the ability to gurn at a bloke who's 20m away instead of 80m!

I remember in the 15 years + I've been on this board complaints and arguments about atmosphere no matter where our fans where.

Back when they were in the East End it was endless. Multiple groups (netters who sang too fast for example and ruined it), the roof kept the noise in, and so on.

Maybe there are things we can do to encourage it, but I think it'll still be pretty shit until we start seeing change on the pitch.

Key thing with both of those examples is they have a dedicated ‘end’ behind the goal. Our vocal support is shoved in a fairly underwhelming corner.

Ideally I’d have liked us to have put home fans in the Atyeo as a ‘home end’ with away support in an adjacent corner of Lansdown/Atyeo next to them. 

[lenred]

2 minutes ago, IAmNick said:

  

Maybe - I'm not sure I buy it personally.

Isn't the north stand at Leeds opposite the away fans, and the Palace Holmsdale end at the opposite end for example?

Man Utd was a great atmosphere, as was Wolves that year and a few others. I think it's what happens on the pitch that drives it, not the ability to gurn at a bloke who's 20m away instead of 80m!

I remember in the 15 years + I've been on this board complaints and arguments about atmosphere no matter where our fans where.

Back when they were in the East End it was endless. Multiple groups (netters who sang too fast for example and ruined it), the roof kept the noise in, and so on.

Maybe there are things we can do to encourage it, but I think it'll still be pretty shit until we start seeing change on the pitch. Maybe the location currently is poor, but the club have called it a singing section, put in rails now, allow unreserved seats, and so on - for some to imply they're working against it or hate it is ridiculous imo. They could do more of course though!

I think it will be incremental. It’s rock bottom at the moment - the worst it’s ever been.   Not sure if you were there on Sunday but the atmosphere was infinitely better with the block in full flow.  Will just this change make AG a fortress? No.  But it’s a start.    And then we will need to focus on the next incremental change that will improve it further. And on and on.  I think the times you mention people moaning previously are perfectly valid - they did - but it was at a position of strength in comparison to the diabolical state it is now.  It has to start somewhere.   

[Winterstoke toad]

5 minutes ago, IAmNick said:

  

Maybe - I'm not sure I buy it personally.

Isn't the north stand at Leeds opposite the away fans, and the Palace Holmsdale end at the opposite end for example?

Man Utd was a great atmosphere, as was Wolves that year and a few others. I think it's what happens on the pitch that drives it, not the ability to gurn at a bloke who's 20m away instead of 80m!

I remember in the 15 years + I've been on this board complaints and arguments about atmosphere no matter where our fans where.

Back when they were in the East End it was endless. Multiple groups (netters who sang too fast for example and ruined it), the roof kept the noise in, and so on.

Maybe there are things we can do to encourage it, but I think it'll still be pretty shit until we start seeing change on the pitch. Maybe the location currently is poor, but the club have called it a singing section, put in rails now, allow unreserved seats, and so on - for some to imply they're working against it or hate it is ridiculous imo. They could do more of course though!

Leeds have both ends behind the goal and a bit to the side where they stand and sing ( The Kop , south stand and cheese wedge )

[Mr Popodopolous]

27 minutes ago, Phileas Fogg said:

Save yourself the aggro Mr. P, just assume when people write ‘the club’ they mean the whole organisation who influence things like this - inclusive of SAG. It’s just shorthand.

It’s not worth mansplaining the same point over and over.

Will bear that in mind PF, yes would make sense.

I have serious issues with our SAG fwiw. I have the feeling that they are over restrictive, over cautious, over secretive. I appreciate that not everything can be put in the public domain but this is weighted too far in favour of anonymity given to decision making of a dubious quality.

Edited January 11, 2023 by Mr Popodopolous

[Phileas Fogg]

Just now, Mr Popodopolous said:

Will bear that in mind PF, yes would make sense.

I have serious issues with our SAG fwiw. I have the feeling that they are over restrictive, over cautious, over secretive.  I appreciate you can't put everything in the public domain but this is weighted too far in favour of anonymity given to decision making of a dubious quality.

Agreed - the whole ‘lights on during evening games’ thing is a dreadful policy. Really detracts from the spectacle. Feels like you’re watching from a supermarket rather than a football stadium. 

[IAmNick]

12 minutes ago, Phileas Fogg said:

Key thing with both of those examples is they have a dedicated ‘end’ behind the goal. Our vocal support is shoved in a fairly underwhelming corner.

Ideally I’d have liked us to have put home fans in the Atyeo as a ‘home end’ with away support in an adjacent corner of Lansdown/Atyeo next to them. 

But they're still not next to the away fans right? It's a combination of things I guess, but in my view get the right stuff happening on the pitch, and a few of the right people, and it'll happen. Shuffling the people around on it's own probably won't make any long term difference.

South stand would be best imo, as it's one big tier so would look great. Like a proper home end.

Whatever happens I hope it works!

9 minutes ago, lenred said:

I think it will be incremental. It’s rock bottom at the moment - the worst it’s ever been.   Not sure if you were there on Sunday but the atmosphere was infinitely better with the block in full flow.  Will just this change make AG a fortress? No.  But it’s a start.    And then we will need to focus on the next incremental change that will improve it further. And on and on.  I think the times you mention people moaning previously are perfectly valid - they did - but it was at a position of strength in comparison to the diabolical state it is now.  It has to start somewhere.   

Yeah I was there on Sunday - it was better I agree!

I'm not having a go at the people trying to do it and I absolutely support them making an effort. It's more than I'm doing sat lazily in the Lansdown and good luck to them all. I really hope it helps.

9 minutes ago, Winterstoke toad said:

Leeds have both ends behind the goal and a bit to the side where they stand and sing ( The Kop , south stand and cheese wedge )

Well we have one end and two sides! Put our fans in Leeds ground and the same stuff we've watched at home lately in front of them and I don't believe the atmosphere would be that different personally.

Edited January 11, 2023 by IAmNick

[Bris Red]

2 hours ago, 2015 said:

Lets hope this comes off, the ground has needed some sort of character which has been slowly and carefully diluted by the club for the past 6 years.

Was only saying this on here the other day mate. Great to see fans have shown some initiative in organising this.

 

[frenchred]

Well over 400 tickets left still!

[Guest Redemption]

I am a season ticket holder in E34 and have been for many years. I enjoy sitting next to the away end. It’s just about the only place at Ashton Gate to enjoy a decent atmosphere nowadays. I have absolutely no issues with anyone coming across in an attempt to create a decent home atmosphere. 
Just bear in mind that there are a few more of us season ticket holders than some think and there won’t be the hordes of empty seats that there were for the cup game, which were taken off sale for that block after a few days of being released. One assumes in an attempt  to avoid over stewarding / policing. 
looking forward to seeing some new faces for the Brum game. A much better idea than a pointless poorly planned protest. 
let’s get behind the lads. 
COYRS

 

[Barrs Court Red]

1 hour ago, Mr Popodopolous said:

 

We don't know unless anyone on here has info to the contrary, what would have been deemed acceptable to the SAG and probably more football specific, the SGSA.

The club can promise it from their perspective but we don't know If standing up a side stand would have been deemed acceptable to said authorities.

I don’t really care about a faceless and secretive body - that’s something that cant be controlled.

 

What can be controlled is the messaging from the clubs and the stadium company  What is the plan? If it’s changed be open and honest about it - Tell you stakeholders. 
 

As it is, I doubt there was ever any serious intent to deliver it as described. 

Edited January 11, 2023 by Barrs Court Red

[Mr Popodopolous]

2 minutes ago, Barrs Court Red said:

I don’t really care about a faceless and secretive body - that’s something that cant be controlled.

 

What can be controlled is the messaging from the clubs and the stadium company  What is the plan? If it’s changed be open and honest about it - Tell you stakeholders. 
 

As it is, I doubt there was ever any serious intent to deliver it as described. 

I agree with 1st paragraph especially, 2nd paragraph I would question the intent and seriousness of the club yes.

Edited January 11, 2023 by Mr Popodopolous

[NcnsBcfc]

Well if they all moved to E34, It'll make an interesting spectacle for the empty rail standing the club put in.

[phantom]

I am not sure if it has been mentioned anywhere but assume those planning on moving over realise that ticket checks are done by stewards to get in A and B block

[Lew-T]

I can’t see this E34 business going ahead, as the club wouldn’t allow it. It was probably easier on Sunday as it was the FA cup and half empty…

The club have installed safe standing in S82 and I don’t think that’s going to change. 

[spudski]

This is going to completely confuse the players when they score, and try to celebrate in front of an empty S82

[CyderInACan]

Just now, spudski said:

This is going to completely confuse the players when they score, and try to celebrate in front of an empty S82

Score? What is that?

[Winterstoke toad]

50 minutes ago, IAmNick said:

But they're still not next to the away fans right? It's a combination of things I guess, but in my view get the right stuff happening on the pitch, and a few of the right people, and it'll happen. Shuffling the people around on it's own probably won't make any long term difference.

South stand would be best imo, as it's one big tier so would look great. Like a proper home end.

Whatever happens I hope it works!

Yeah I was there on Sunday - it was better I agree!

I'm not having a go at the people trying to do it and I absolutely support them making an effort. It's more than I'm doing sat lazily in the Lansdown and good luck to them all. I really hope it helps.

Well we have one end and two sides! Put our fans in Leeds ground and the same stuff we've watched at home lately in front of them and I don't believe the atmosphere would be that different personally.

No we have a tiny little corner not  one end and two sides . If you stood up and sang in any other part of the ground you’d be told to stop , it’s embarrassing the state Ashton gate is .

[Super]

17 minutes ago, phantom said:

I am not sure if it has been mentioned anywhere but assume those planning on moving over realise that ticket checks are done by stewards to get in A and B block

They can buy tickets.

[Wealwayseatcheese]

1 hour ago, CyderInACan said:

So it's nothing to do with supporting the team, then. It's just a chance to be closer to the away fans and call them w*nkers. Mint. 

Is that what I said. Err no. Don’t try and patronise me. It’s all about creating an atmosphere by being closer to away fans and singing back and for , where does calling them ******* come into my comments, please enlighten me??? I just think it’s going to cause problems on Saturday.  

[DolmanGaz]

I have a ST in B Block, have done for years. I sat in my seat for the Swansea game, and loads of folks had come over and were stood in A Block. Loads of them were stood directly in front of ST holders / people sat down, obscuring views. This won't end well!!

[Mr Popodopolous]

10 minutes ago, Winterstoke toad said:

No we have a tiny little corner not  one end and two sides . If you stood up and sang in any other part of the ground you’d be told to stop , it’s embarrassing the state Ashton gate is .

The back row or couple of back rows seem to get away with standing, although that varies.

[ExiledAjax]

20 minutes ago, phantom said:

I am not sure if it has been mentioned anywhere but assume those planning on moving over realise that ticket checks are done by stewards to get in A and B block

 

3 minutes ago, Super said:

They can buy tickets.

As I (admittedly somewhat confusingly) outlined above, the terms and conditions of a season ticket permit the ticketholder to move seats up to 3 times per season free of charge. There is no requirement to notify the Club, stewards, or anyone else prior to doing so.

Therefore if you are an ST-holder and you have sat in your assigned seat (or area if your ST is in the unreserved area) then you should simply explain to the stewards that you are using your right under clause 10.1 of your ticket terms and conditions, and are moving seat for this match.

If this will be the 4th time you have moved seat then yes you should contact the ticket office and pay the difference between the seat price in E34 and your pro rata season ticket price.

Alternatively if you are flush with cash just buy a match ticket in E34.

 

[phantom]

9 minutes ago, Super said:

They can buy tickets.

Can't see many new sales from today to Saturday making much difference

[nickolas]

1 hour ago, Winterstoke toad said:

None of that would happen if it was done properly. Since the rebuild everywhere the club has our louder fans has been either to small ( 1/3 of the atyeo ) or in a pointless place where you’ll never create atmosphere ( section 82)

E34 and even adding the section next to it would be perfect and stop our club from becoming a soulless pit like Wigan and reading (to be fair atm readings atmosphere is way better than ours since they’ve moved their fans )

So i can be one to oppose the next to it bit in E33?! Sat there for nearon 20 years now and enjoyed the Block B stuff of that era. 
 

Now i take my 6 year old i dont think he’d like the ruccus of that in our block. Stick to E34 and we’ll watch on from next door!

Or get yourselves down the block at the front in the rain!

 

[LondonRobin]

19 minutes ago, ExiledAjax said:

 

As I (admittedly somewhat confusingly) outlined above, the terms and conditions of a season ticket permit the ticketholder to move seats up to 3 times per season free of charge. There is no requirement to notify the Club, stewards, or anyone else prior to doing so.

Therefore if you are an ST-holder and you have sat in your assigned seat (or area if your ST is in the unreserved area) then you should simply explain to the stewards that you are using your right under clause 10.1 of your ticket terms and conditions, and are moving seat for this match.

If this will be the 4th time you have moved seat then yes you should contact the ticket office and pay the difference between the seat price in E34 and your pro rata season ticket price.

Alternatively if you are flush with cash just buy a match ticket in E34.

 

My question would be if you don't have to notify the club of changing seats using your '3 free seat moves' then how will the club/stewards know if you are on your first second or third? You could just say each time to the steward oh yes this is my 2nd time free seat move 

[ExiledAjax]

Just now, LondonRobin said:

My question would be if you don't have to notify the club of changing seats using your '3 free seat moves' then how will the club/stewards know if you are on your first second or third? You could just say each time to the steward oh yes this is my 2nd time free seat move 

You could do that couldn't you. I wouldn't encourage anyone to do that. But it does look like you could do that doesn't it.

[italian dave]

27 minutes ago, ExiledAjax said:

 

As I (admittedly somewhat confusingly) outlined above, the terms and conditions of a season ticket permit the ticketholder to move seats up to 3 times per season free of charge. There is no requirement to notify the Club, stewards, or anyone else prior to doing so.

Therefore if you are an ST-holder and you have sat in your assigned seat (or area if your ST is in the unreserved area) then you should simply explain to the stewards that you are using your right under clause 10.1 of your ticket terms and conditions, and are moving seat for this match.

If this will be the 4th time you have moved seat then yes you should contact the ticket office and pay the difference between the seat price in E34 and your pro rata season ticket price.

Alternatively if you are flush with cash just buy a match ticket in E34.

 

It’s not very well worded, I agree, but I don’t believe this means you are simply entitled to sit where you want three times a season.

It means that three times a season you can contact the club and get your seat switched to an alternative one - but they’ll give you a new ticket for the new seat - and potentially sell your usual seat. 

The context and the ‘definitions’ in the T&C help a bit - but not much! 

Edited January 11, 2023 by italian dave

[Topper 123]

3 hours ago, Three Lions said:

I dont think these young bulls have any cows to lead mate. Unlike years ago where hundreds would go where they liked due to the shout in the Hen and Chicken. 

Remember it well :laugh:

[ExiledAjax]

16 minutes ago, italian dave said:

It’s not very well worded, I agree, but I don’t believe this means you are simply entitled to sit where you want three times a season.

It means that three times a season you can contact the club and get your seat switched to an alternative one - but they’ll give you a new ticket for the new seat - and potentially sell your usual seat. 

The context and the ‘definitions’ in the T&C help a bit - but not much! 

I agree that's probably how the club would want to interpret it. I also agree that you'd generally expect tom have to contact the club beforehand. However, on a strict reading and interpretation, including the definitions section I think you'd be within your rights, and able to argue, that there is no requirement to speak to the club beforehand.

Yes it is poorly worded but that's the club's fault.

I guess there could be something in the "Ground Regulations" referred to in the T&Cs. I think that refers to a section within the "Club Charter" on the OS.

Now, in that section there is a term that says "All persons entering the Ground may only occupy the seat allocated to them by their ticket and must not move from any one part of the Ground to another without the express permission or instruction of any steward, officer of the Club and/or any police officer." So yes that does suggest that you have to get permission before moving seat, although it doesn't expressly refer back to 10.1 so you might argue that the express mention overrides the generic.

There is then also a catch-all clause saying "Notwithstanding possession of any ticket the Club, any police officer or authorised steward may refuse entry to (or eject from) the Ground any person: that fails (or in the Club's reasonable opinion is likely to fail) to comply with these Ground Regulations or any reasonable instruction issued by a police officer or authorised steward; and/or whose presence within the Ground is, or could (in the Club's reasonable opinion), constitute a source of danger, nuisance or annoyance to any other person.

So if in the Club's reasonable opinion you sitting in E34 could annoy someone, anyone, then they can refuse you entry or eject you. This is what empowers them generally to eject anyone, for anything, at anytime.

Edited January 11, 2023 by ExiledAjax

[Sixtyseconds]

2 hours ago, NOTBLUE said:

We’ll I’m getting a bit long in the tooth now,but have been considering moving back to A/B block,if others from the corner section want to move there in numbers all the better,now where did I store my Pringle jumpers and Los jeans.

There is stil some  original chaps present.

Its dark wash and black rinse Lois with a Goose from Canada for the long toothed chaps now.

[Topper 123]

53 minutes ago, Super said:

They can buy tickets.

Yes and if they hold season ticket can move it free of charge 

[ExiledAjax]

5 minutes ago, ExiledAjax said:

Now, in that section there is a term that says "All persons entering the Ground may only occupy the seat allocated to them by their ticket and must not move from any one part of the Ground to another without the express permission or instruction of any steward, officer of the Club and/or any police officer." So yes that does suggest that you have to get permission before moving seat, although it doesn't expressly refer back to 10.1 so you might argue that the express mention overrides the generic.

@italian dave note that strictly reading that clause of the Charter I would say that "permission" could be granted by the steward in A block on the day. 

So going up to a steward (any steward) on Saturday and saying "Here's my ST, I've not moved more than 3 times already this season, can I please sit in E34 today" would not breach any rules. Of course the steward might refuse permission if he's already let 50 of your mates through.

[italian dave]

2 minutes ago, ExiledAjax said:

@italian dave note that strictly reading that clause of the Charter I would say that "permission" could be granted by the steward in A block on the day. 

So going up to a steward (any steward) on Saturday and saying "Here's my ST, I've not moved more than 3 times already this season, can I please sit in E34 today" would not breach any rules. Of course the steward might refuse permission if he's already let 50 of your mates through.

Yes, I'd agree that you've probably got a case for arguing it.....but I'm not sure you'd get very far!!

[Rebounder]

3 hours ago, TomF said:

Reminds me of when the middle of the Atyeo split and H Block was created.  It did in some sense work well.  Not saying this A block idea is good or bad but the safety advisory group could very quickly close it down. I think some fans forget they dictate a lot of policy to the club that they either adhere to or risk having areas shut down.

I don't buy all this 'the atmosphere is poor because people are sat in x block' and because the club have sanitised the areas etc. It's because the football on display is uninspiring and has been for a number of years, it goes back to the end of the LJ era.  Remember when we were on a roll with GJ, Cotts and even those play off semi's with Wilson. The atmosphere all over the ground was good because the fans had something to get behind.  Improve the stuff on the pitch and the atmosphere will follow. 

I remember back then constant threads on here saying how the Atyeo is bad for acoustics and that was why we needed the east end. I agreed and loved going down the east end glad I got to experience that even if it wasn't the same as back in the day. 

Seems the away fans don't have a problem with creating an atmosphere in there though so it can't just be the type of stand. 

I sat in the bottom part of A Block for the Sunderland game and it was quite good. They bought loads and there was good backwards and forwards throughout the game. Thought it would be even better against teams like Cardiff. 

I think the club have made some good decisions recently and should be praised for their community work, but I'm inclined to agree that the club aren't really interested in their being a hot atmosphere that is hard to control.

I can kind of understand why from a business and headache point of view, but it's out of touch with a fairly large element of our fans. It's also not surprising as ultimately we are talking about billionaires and people from corporate backgrounds who make the decisions. As great as Ashton Gate is now, it is also a reflection of that clean (on the surface at least) and corporate world. It's no different from many grounds in that respect and for better, or worse that's how football is now. Look at Cardiff for another perfect example of this. 

Edited January 11, 2023 by Rebounder

[Galley is our king]

Are the supporters club and trust now going to have to pop into the three lions to make sure they are happy with any future agreements?

An awful lot of work was done to get a safe standing area installed and now they want to move?

When the current "singing section" actually sing, they are joined by loads in the rest of the South stand and Dolman.....  they just need to sing....

I was appalled the other week when Scott Murray had his half time presentation. His surfer flag flew proudly before the game but, when it mattered most, at half time, it wasn't there. That area was empty. Everyone buggered off to have a pint! Great way to treat a legend!

It's nowt to do with the area, THEY need to do better....

[Mr Popodopolous]

19 minutes ago, Rebounder said:

I remember back then constant threads on here saying how the Atyeo is bad for acoustics and that was why we needed the east end. I agreed and loved going down the east end glad I got to experience that even if it wasn't the same as back in the day. 

Seems the away fans don't have a problem with creating an atmosphere in there though so it can't just be the type of stand. 

I sat in the bottom part of A Block for the Sunderland game and it was quite good. They bought loads and there was good backwards and forwards throughout the game. Thought it would be even better against teams like Cardiff. 

I think the club have made some good decisions recently and should be praised for their community work, but I'm inclined to agree that the club aren't really interested in their being a hot atmosphere that is hard to control.

I can kind of understand why from a business and headache point of view, but it's out of touch with a fairly large element of our fans. It's also not surprising as ultimately we are talking about billionaires and people from corporate backgrounds who make the decisions. As great as Ashton Gate is now, it is also a reflection of that clean (on the surface at least) and corporate world. It's no different from many grounds in that respect and for better, or worse that's how football is now. Look at Cardiff for another perfect example of this. 

There are different factors at play too. I don't think the acoustics in the Atyeo are especially fantastic but it seems that the older the stand the better the acoustics in a lot of cases- hence why the EastEnd was excellent in this respect. I'm generalising a bit.

Agree on the clean and corporate side, modern grounds have headed that way.

Sunderland decent atmosphere agreed, think Watford at home also decent but that was because we put it in on the pitch, crowd responded and it was good all round. Talking wider atmosphere here- can big away followings help with atmosphere in the ground as a whole? Always an interesting debate.

As for away outsinging home or being noisier in a given stand I think that is inevitable in a lot of cases. You generally okay mahbe I'm outraged habe some harder core fans as a percentage in am away end, travelled a long way going to make most of it, more likely to stand than home for a range of reasons, start drinking earlier that can help. No one size fits but a lot of factors feed in.

[BUTOR]

23 minutes ago, Rebounder said:

I remember back then constant threads on here saying how the Atyeo is bad for acoustics and that was why we needed the east end. I agreed and loved going down the east end glad I got to experience that even if it wasn't the same as back in the day. 

Seems the away fans don't have a problem with creating an atmosphere in there though so it can't just be the type of stand. 

I sat in the bottom part of A Block for the Sunderland game and it was quite good. They bought loads and there was good backwards and forwards throughout the game. Thought it would be even better against teams like Cardiff. 

I think the club have made some good decisions recently and should be praised for their community work, but I'm inclined to agree that the club aren't really interested in their being a hot atmosphere that is hard to control.

I can kind of understand why from a business and headache point of view, but it's out of touch with a fairly large element of our fans. It's also not surprising as ultimately we are talking about billionaires and people from corporate backgrounds who make the decisions. As great as Ashton Gate is now, it is also a reflection of that clean (on the surface at least) and corporate world. It's no different from many grounds in that respect and for better, or worse that's how football is now. Look at Cardiff for another perfect example of this. 

But there comes a point when the corporate gleam becomes counter productive to securing new fans as it is meant to do. What is it that made us all fall in love with Bristol City as young people? Less likely was it to be about gorgeous football and stunning eras of success as it was about personality. Pride in the rough edges and the culture, fascination in the little pockets of chaos, and love and belonging in the soul and sanctity of Ashton Gate. 
 

I don’t see any of that right now. Young fans are well aware of the past and that they’re missing out, I don’t blame them for wanting to change that.

[Winterstoke toad]

1 hour ago, Mr Popodopolous said:

The back row or couple of back rows seem to get away with standing, although that varies.

True but there’s been plenty of times I’ve stood at the back of e34 and been told by stewards to sit even though I was in the back row . I pointed to him that everyone in the back 3 rows of e28 was stood up with no issue but he made about 10 of us sit down anyway .

[Mr Popodopolous]

3 minutes ago, Winterstoke toad said:

True but there’s been plenty of times I’ve stood at the back of e34 and been told by stewards to sit even though I was in the back row . I pointed to him that everyone in the back 3 rows of e28 was stood up with no issue but he made about 10 of us sit down anyway .

It seems to vary granted. To me if stood up the back couple of rows and not drinking or vaping or blocking other views, well the club should just do nothing, intervening causes more bad feelings than it solves tbh.

(I don't agree with the alcohol rule either, Government need to look at that properly. Vaping I couldn't care less but presumably that is national legislation again).

Edited January 11, 2023 by Mr Popodopolous

[Rebounder]

32 minutes ago, Bouncearoundtheground said:

But there comes a point when the corporate gleam becomes counter productive to securing new fans as it is meant to do. What is it that made us all fall in love with Bristol City as young people? Less likely was it to be about gorgeous football and stunning eras of success as it was about personality. Pride in the rough edges and the culture, fascination in the little pockets of chaos, and love and belonging in the soul and sanctity of Ashton Gate. 
 

I don’t see any of that right now. Young fans are well aware of the past and that they’re missing out, I don’t blame them for wanting to change that.

I completely agree. 

[frenchred]

1 hour ago, ExiledAjax said:

@italian dave note that strictly reading that clause of the Charter I would say that "permission" could be granted by the steward in A block on the day. 

So going up to a steward (any steward) on Saturday and saying "Here's my ST, I've not moved more than 3 times already this season, can I please sit in E34 today" would not breach any rules. Of course the steward might refuse permission if he's already let 50 of your mates through.

More than one entrance!

[Wealwayseatcheese]

2 hours ago, Mr Popodopolous said:

The back row or couple of back rows seem to get away with standing, although that varies.

They gave up on asking the guys up there, as rightly pointed out to stewards on many  occasions ,  S82 stood before rail seating, away fans stand, all in the same stadium. Standing in the back row/2 rows doesn’t obscure any views. I sit up there . When it’s a big game people stand on the walkway at back . 

[Mr Popodopolous]

1 minute ago, Wealwayseatcheese said:

They gave up on asking the guys up there, as rightly pointed out to stewards on many  occasions ,  S82 stood before rail seating, away fans stand, all in the same stadium. Standing in the back row/2 rows doesn’t obscure any views. I sit up there . When it’s a big game people stand on the walkway at back . 

Am glad to hear some common sense has prevailed.

[fisherrich]

1 hour ago, Rebounder said:

I remember back then constant threads on here saying how the Atyeo is bad for acoustics and that was why we needed the east end. I agreed and loved going down the east end glad I got to experience that even if it wasn't the same as back in the day. 

Seems the away fans don't have a problem with creating an atmosphere in there though so it can't just be the type of stand. 

I sat in the bottom part of A Block for the Sunderland game and it was quite good. They bought loads and there was good backwards and forwards throughout the game. Thought it would be even better against teams like Cardiff. 

I think the club have made some good decisions recently and should be praised for their community work, but I'm inclined to agree that the club aren't really interested in their being a hot atmosphere that is hard to control.

I can kind of understand why from a business and headache point of view, but it's out of touch with a fairly large element of our fans. It's also not surprising as ultimately we are talking about billionaires and people from corporate backgrounds who make the decisions. As great as Ashton Gate is now, it is also a reflection of that clean (on the surface at least) and corporate world. It's no different from many grounds in that respect and for better, or worse that's how football is now. Look at Cardiff for another perfect example of this. 

AG is a sterile ground with next to no atmosphere. I hate it. 

[Phileas Fogg]

13 minutes ago, fisherrich said:

AG is a sterile ground with next to no atmosphere. I hate it. 

And what's so frustrating is that it could easily be so different.

There's nothing different demographically between fans of our club or other English teams that mean AG is incapable of a good atmosphere. People on here talk about Bristol being "laid back" and "passive", but this isn't the 1800s, people move around the country so a culture unique to a City or football club isn't particularly realistic. It's not the same as comparing an English club to Boca Juniors or Galatasaray where the supporter culture is so different.

It takes a club to be receptive to initiatives that help build an atmosphere. Placing away fans en-masse behind a goal, with an area marketed towards our own vocal supporters as far away as possible is terrible for atmosphere. 

I agree re: acoustics, although I don't think the sheer size of the Lansdown stand helps. 

Edited January 11, 2023 by Phileas Fogg

[Mr Popodopolous]

20 minutes ago, fisherrich said:

AG is a sterile ground with next to no atmosphere. I hate it. 

Don't think you think that's a bit ott? Pre redevelopment there was East End (yes I know adjusted for modern times), at various times Dolman A and B, Dolman G replaced by the end of the subbers were on the move and at times Atyeo Block H.

Post redevelopment certain things haven't helped. Lansdown Stand size combined with demographics means a consistent atmosphere has been unlikely, as many mention the fap between away fans and some of our livelier ones, doesn't help. Some games have been quite good but not a great number post redevelopment IMO.