Adkins continues his Saints evolution (From Daily Echo)
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Adkins continues his Saints evolution
11:40am Monday 6th August 2012 in Saints News
Jason Puncheon scores against Wolves
Pre-season campaigns are all about learning, and there were plenty of lessons for Saints to take from their 2-0 victory against Wolves at the weekend.
Off the field, there was a probably a bit of head scratching as to why the crowds at the home friendlies have been so sparse, given the excitement of Premier League promotion.
Arguably more importantly, on the pitch Nigel Adkins continues to fine tune ahead of the big kick-off which is now less than a fortnight away.
In terms of the crowd, which for this game was officially given as just under 4,000 – which proved looks can be deceiving as to the naked eye it looked at best half that – there are some pointers.
The first is that it is bucking the Saints trend, going back a great many years, to have so many pre-season friendlies at home.
Increased costs The Markus Liebherr Memorial Cup, Ajax, Wolves and Udinese, who arrive next Saturday, is an awful lot.
To be totally fair to Saints, pre-season is always a struggle for crowds with people away on holiday and all but the most fanatical happy to take a break from football for the Olympics , the cricket , something else altogether, until the real action starts.
Also, the increased costs of watching Saints in the Premier League has undoubtedly played a part.
The trick Saints may have missed is in their pricing, by charging a relatively decent amount – Wolves was the cheapest game at £15 for adults, £10 concessions and under-11s free with a paying adult.
Hampshire Cricket have proved for their game with Surrey later this month that people will come if you give them an incentive.
In their case, the CB40 game at The Ageas Bowl falls on the day Saints open their Premier League season at Man-chester City live on Sky.
They realised what that would do to their crowd and so gave tickets away for free.
They sold them out in no time at all.
From a business point of view, it is getting people through the door that will buy food and merchandise, hopefully inspire a new generation of fans who might not otherwise have come in, and give them reason to say they are embracing their community.
Saints have brought in about 10,000 for the Memorial Cup, 5,000 for Ajax and now 4,000 for Wolves.
The numbers from that might stack up, but there is the possibility that even with the euphoria of promotion they may not get a sold out stadium from the attendances of the four friendlies combined.
That seems a real shame.
However, the most important thing for many connected with the club will be preparations for things that take place when the players cross the white line.
That is what will define their pre-season this summer.
Make no mistake, there is a lot of work being done and it’s interesting to see it actually progress in front of your very eyes.
The new Saints formation is the major case in point.
It looks increasingly likely now that Nigel Adkins will, for the start of the season at least, leave behind the 4-4-2 that has helped the club to back-to-back promotions for a new 4-3-2-1 system.
Like all formations it is fluid, at times looking like a 4-3-3, more often like a 4-5-1.
But the evolution of it in pre-season and the improvement in the understanding of the players, clearly drilled by Adkins and his team in between the games, is clear.
Formations don’t win or lose matches, players do, but they certainly have a part to play.
There is no perfect formation out there, or everybody would be using it and would have done for years now.
But for every manager it is about finding the best way to utilise the players at his disposal.
And for Adkins there is the added problem of stepping up to the big time to face teams who boast some of the best footballers in the world.
No longer will Saints be the big boys, as they have found themselves in the last few years. It will be they who are the underdogs.
Cautious formation With that in mind, perhaps a more cautious formation is being thought of.
Saints do not want to be overrun, they do not want to get outnumbered in midfield, they do not want to be exposed out wide.
But the trick is to balance that with maintaining the ability to score goals and to get forward in numbers.
Adkins appears to have settled on what he believes is the best way to cope in the top flight. Now it is all about getting the players to understand it.
The key for Saints will be not to drop too deep, to get sucked in to having a back four on the edge of their own area with the midfield five just in front and the lone striker chasing about in his own half as the opposition pass the ball along their backline.
All right, it would make Saints hard to break down, but with the quality in the top flight the best teams will probably find a way on most occasions and it leaves Saints with few options when they do win the ball.
They are not helped by a lack of pace to counter attack or to quickly support the lone front man, and it’s clear how valuable it is from Nathaniel Clyne’s impressive pre-season forays forward from right back.
Comments(79)
Saintade
says...
12:23pm Mon 6 Aug 12
Bigrich1980
says...
12:41pm Mon 6 Aug 12
Saint_Si
says...
12:48pm Mon 6 Aug 12
Dickosfc
says...
12:54pm Mon 6 Aug 12
.
This tactics debate is good, I think a lot of teams will be adopting these types of formations this season. I think Nige will want to be positive as opposed to packing midfield to be defensive. The likes of Lallana are to good going forward for that. Really can’t wait now! I wish I could have a crystal ball to see how we’ll fair. Nervous but cautiously optimistic! COYRs
The Music Man
says...
12:56pm Mon 6 Aug 12
lowe esteem
says...
1:20pm Mon 6 Aug 12
lowe esteem
says...
1:33pm Mon 6 Aug 12
#1saintsfan wrote:Agreed.
saints have been caught with their pants down with regards to ticket prices. absurd prices for friendlies considering how many are actually at st marys. they need to get real. surely 15,000 fans paying £5 each is better than 4,000 paying £15 considering the additional revenue from food/drink and merchandise.
Perhaps the All Red strip is a clear indication from the club that this is not The Saints that you've come to know and love?
Previous regimes -for good and bad- have usually communicated their reasons for change, and pricing, one way or the other.
chapelsaint
says...
1:46pm Mon 6 Aug 12
lowe esteem wrote:Having forked out over £700 for season tickets, I am sorry to have to say that there will be no friendlies, league cup or fa cup games for me this season. I have also dropped my membership of the Dell Supporters Club owing to unjustified price hike. As for beer/food/programmes
The Club has already sent out many very clear messages that "we're now Premier League" and a lot of them are very dismissive of the regular fan. Like the last PL journey, a season-ticket snobbery is being invoked, and the hiking of other prices is part and parcel of this in an attempt to give credibility. I suggest that fans communicate any concerns back to the club soon or resort to the 'feet and seat talking' bit. The transient evolution of the 'average' Saints fan will have been happening quietly over the close-season and regular STH (and any others able to get in) will notice this change on their return to seats next season. There will be many 'in that number' that don't share that same sense of loyalty as many of the regulars on here, and Saints will do well to reconsider this short-term marriage of convenience. Many are only season-ticket holders because they feel they need to, if this is 'market-forces' then Mr Cortese and co. should indeed look more closely on the other side of this gilded coin.
--forget it. Misery I may be but millionaire I aint!
twoswings
says...
1:48pm Mon 6 Aug 12
has been over priced i agree with the coments above but the team are looking fitter and i like the way he his trying different formations but nigel PLEASE can you get a new centre half in before the start of the season we are lacking pace in the centre of defence
ps.nice to see matt le tiss sitting in the kingsland sat having his picture taken with loads of kids and did'nt worry him
malcher
says...
1:52pm Mon 6 Aug 12
I would suggest that if ticket prices were half of the price, they would have attracted more than twice as many customers.
No matter how you dress them up these games are non compeditive training games,a fact that surely needs to be reflected in the price.
See you next at City Saints ( Manchester not Bristol!)
COYR
tugboat
says...
2:21pm Mon 6 Aug 12
Never mind- get Jemaine Lens on the bus ,pace to burn.
St Retford
says...
2:38pm Mon 6 Aug 12
Now, onto more pressing matters: anyone know how I can get a ticket for the City game? Saints appear to have sold out their allocation in about 10 minutes. Are any more likely to come onto the market?
SO50 Saint
says...
2:59pm Mon 6 Aug 12
Chris1991
says...
3:29pm Mon 6 Aug 12
Now whilst I like to see the Saints win, watching a game where there are umpteen changes is not really a propper match.
I'll wait for the real deal I think.
Call2Arms
says...
3:30pm Mon 6 Aug 12
We like to support the club but we are not mugs.
I'm sure the manager gets a lot from it, so do the support staff and the players with all the GPS readouts etc. But its no longer a game that is worth watching for the fans.
george chivers
says...
4:32pm Mon 6 Aug 12
lowe esteem wrote:I agree pre-season friendlies should be cheap. Let Dad bring along the next generation for free. A good long term investment.
The Club has already sent out many very clear messages that "we're now Premier League" and a lot of them are very dismissive of the regular fan. Like the last PL journey, a season-ticket snobbery is being invoked, and the hiking of other prices is part and parcel of this in an attempt to give credibility. I suggest that fans communicate any concerns back to the club soon or resort to the 'feet and seat talking' bit. The transient evolution of the 'average' Saints fan will have been happening quietly over the close-season and regular STH (and any others able to get in) will notice this change on their return to seats next season. There will be many 'in that number' that don't share that same sense of loyalty as many of the regulars on here, and Saints will do well to reconsider this short-term marriage of convenience. Many are only season-ticket holders because they feel they need to, if this is 'market-forces' then Mr Cortese and co. should indeed look more closely on the other side of this gilded coin.
The "New" STH holders who annoy me are the ones who left when we were relegated and have now come back after an absence of 7 years
Not "real" supporters, just status seekers who like to talk about their team being in the "Premier League", down the pub.
Well chaps, you missed the real football, against the real teams, and the glory of the real fight back. Shame really, you might have enjoyed it.
Welcome back to the prawn sandwiches and ego trip. Oh yes, and the likely struggle against relegation. You will remember that no doubt. Perhaps? Or more likely if we are not in the top half of the PL by Xmas you might just leave your seat vacant for the second half of the season.
Welcome Home. We need you!
SO50 Saint
says...
4:42pm Mon 6 Aug 12
slugger
says...
4:42pm Mon 6 Aug 12
george chivers wrote:i think you'll find that an awful lot of the new season ticket holders are regular fans that just want to guarantee their seats ahead of the newcomers........ i know i am .
lowe esteem wrote:I agree pre-season friendlies should be cheap. Let Dad bring along the next generation for free. A good long term investment.
The Club has already sent out many very clear messages that "we're now Premier League" and a lot of them are very dismissive of the regular fan. Like the last PL journey, a season-ticket snobbery is being invoked, and the hiking of other prices is part and parcel of this in an attempt to give credibility. I suggest that fans communicate any concerns back to the club soon or resort to the 'feet and seat talking' bit. The transient evolution of the 'average' Saints fan will have been happening quietly over the close-season and regular STH (and any others able to get in) will notice this change on their return to seats next season. There will be many 'in that number' that don't share that same sense of loyalty as many of the regulars on here, and Saints will do well to reconsider this short-term marriage of convenience. Many are only season-ticket holders because they feel they need to, if this is 'market-forces' then Mr Cortese and co. should indeed look more closely on the other side of this gilded coin.
The "New" STH holders who annoy me are the ones who left when we were relegated and have now come back after an absence of 7 years
Not "real" supporters, just status seekers who like to talk about their team being in the "Premier League", down the pub.
Well chaps, you missed the real football, against the real teams, and the glory of the real fight back. Shame really, you might have enjoyed it.
Welcome back to the prawn sandwiches and ego trip. Oh yes, and the likely struggle against relegation. You will remember that no doubt. Perhaps? Or more likely if we are not in the top half of the PL by Xmas you might just leave your seat vacant for the second half of the season.
Welcome Home. We need you!
St Retford
says...
4:44pm Mon 6 Aug 12
Over the Edge
says...
4:53pm Mon 6 Aug 12
Pre-season should be used to advertise the club to the younger fans, parents pay a £10 and you can take two kids in free, get the families involved Saints, you will make your money on the mandatory cheeserubber and bottle of coke all kids want at football.
Over the Edge
says...
5:01pm Mon 6 Aug 12
george chivers wrote:George George George,,,,I have been to every home game since relegation from the top flight and I am a new season ticket holder this year, I went up and down the country in League one and the CCC.
lowe esteem wrote:I agree pre-season friendlies should be cheap. Let Dad bring along the next generation for free. A good long term investment.
The Club has already sent out many very clear messages that "we're now Premier League" and a lot of them are very dismissive of the regular fan. Like the last PL journey, a season-ticket snobbery is being invoked, and the hiking of other prices is part and parcel of this in an attempt to give credibility. I suggest that fans communicate any concerns back to the club soon or resort to the 'feet and seat talking' bit. The transient evolution of the 'average' Saints fan will have been happening quietly over the close-season and regular STH (and any others able to get in) will notice this change on their return to seats next season. There will be many 'in that number' that don't share that same sense of loyalty as many of the regulars on here, and Saints will do well to reconsider this short-term marriage of convenience. Many are only season-ticket holders because they feel they need to, if this is 'market-forces' then Mr Cortese and co. should indeed look more closely on the other side of this gilded coin.
The "New" STH holders who annoy me are the ones who left when we were relegated and have now come back after an absence of 7 years
Not "real" supporters, just status seekers who like to talk about their team being in the "Premier League", down the pub.
Well chaps, you missed the real football, against the real teams, and the glory of the real fight back. Shame really, you might have enjoyed it.
Welcome back to the prawn sandwiches and ego trip. Oh yes, and the likely struggle against relegation. You will remember that no doubt. Perhaps? Or more likely if we are not in the top half of the PL by Xmas you might just leave your seat vacant for the second half of the season.
Welcome Home. We need you!
No need to welcome me back, I never went away (apart from watching Saints) I just couldn't afford shell out a load of my hard earned all at once, now I don't have to I have season ticket.
I don't eat prawn sandwiches nor do I go on ego trips and I don't seek any status, how dare you call me NOT a real fan.
george chivers
says...
5:04pm Mon 6 Aug 12
slugger wrote:I'm sure you are Slugger. I'm having a go at some I know who stuck their noses in the air when we went down and wouldn't be seen dead near the ground or admit who they supported.
george chivers wrote:i think you'll find that an awful lot of the new season ticket holders are regular fans that just want to guarantee their seats ahead of the newcomers........ i know i am .
lowe esteem wrote:I agree pre-season friendlies should be cheap. Let Dad bring along the next generation for free. A good long term investment.
The Club has already sent out many very clear messages that "we're now Premier League" and a lot of them are very dismissive of the regular fan. Like the last PL journey, a season-ticket snobbery is being invoked, and the hiking of other prices is part and parcel of this in an attempt to give credibility. I suggest that fans communicate any concerns back to the club soon or resort to the 'feet and seat talking' bit. The transient evolution of the 'average' Saints fan will have been happening quietly over the close-season and regular STH (and any others able to get in) will notice this change on their return to seats next season. There will be many 'in that number' that don't share that same sense of loyalty as many of the regulars on here, and Saints will do well to reconsider this short-term marriage of convenience. Many are only season-ticket holders because they feel they need to, if this is 'market-forces' then Mr Cortese and co. should indeed look more closely on the other side of this gilded coin.
The "New" STH holders who annoy me are the ones who left when we were relegated and have now come back after an absence of 7 years
Not "real" supporters, just status seekers who like to talk about their team being in the "Premier League", down the pub.
Well chaps, you missed the real football, against the real teams, and the glory of the real fight back. Shame really, you might have enjoyed it.
Welcome back to the prawn sandwiches and ego trip. Oh yes, and the likely struggle against relegation. You will remember that no doubt. Perhaps? Or more likely if we are not in the top half of the PL by Xmas you might just leave your seat vacant for the second half of the season.
Welcome Home. We need you!
george chivers
says...
5:05pm Mon 6 Aug 12
Over the Edge wrote:See my Slugger comment.
george chivers wrote:George George George,,,,I have been to every home game since relegation from the top flight and I am a new season ticket holder this year, I went up and down the country in League one and the CCC.
lowe esteem wrote:I agree pre-season friendlies should be cheap. Let Dad bring along the next generation for free. A good long term investment.
The Club has already sent out many very clear messages that "we're now Premier League" and a lot of them are very dismissive of the regular fan. Like the last PL journey, a season-ticket snobbery is being invoked, and the hiking of other prices is part and parcel of this in an attempt to give credibility. I suggest that fans communicate any concerns back to the club soon or resort to the 'feet and seat talking' bit. The transient evolution of the 'average' Saints fan will have been happening quietly over the close-season and regular STH (and any others able to get in) will notice this change on their return to seats next season. There will be many 'in that number' that don't share that same sense of loyalty as many of the regulars on here, and Saints will do well to reconsider this short-term marriage of convenience. Many are only season-ticket holders because they feel they need to, if this is 'market-forces' then Mr Cortese and co. should indeed look more closely on the other side of this gilded coin.
The "New" STH holders who annoy me are the ones who left when we were relegated and have now come back after an absence of 7 years
Not "real" supporters, just status seekers who like to talk about their team being in the "Premier League", down the pub.
Well chaps, you missed the real football, against the real teams, and the glory of the real fight back. Shame really, you might have enjoyed it.
Welcome back to the prawn sandwiches and ego trip. Oh yes, and the likely struggle against relegation. You will remember that no doubt. Perhaps? Or more likely if we are not in the top half of the PL by Xmas you might just leave your seat vacant for the second half of the season.
Welcome Home. We need you!
No need to welcome me back, I never went away (apart from watching Saints) I just couldn't afford shell out a load of my hard earned all at once, now I don't have to I have season ticket.
I don't eat prawn sandwiches nor do I go on ego trips and I don't seek any status, how dare you call me NOT a real fan.
george chivers
says...
5:15pm Mon 6 Aug 12
St Retford wrote:See my Slugger comment. I'm talking about people who wouldn't go to home matches in the Championship because it was beneath them. Never mind League 1. Then turn up at the JPT Final at Wembley having paid £150 for a posh seat with Lunch.
I understand where you're coming from, George, but we need to be welcoming to new customers if we're to continue growing as a club. I want people to be packing the ground out every week until the economic case for a new ground is so strong that it's impossible for Nicola not to build us one, and for us then to be pulling in 60,000 every home game. We're not going to get to that stage if we sneer at people who didn't make the away trip to Harlepool on one wet Tuesday night.
I think you are a bit optimistic if you want to see 60,000 in the ground. I think there is the potential for 40 to 45,000. 60,000 for a provincial club is I think a bit over the top.
slugger
says...
5:21pm Mon 6 Aug 12
george chivers wrote:i take your point but the truth is that we need to fill as many seats as poss ........ like it or loath it , it's a fact !
slugger wrote:I'm sure you are Slugger. I'm having a go at some I know who stuck their noses in the air when we went down and wouldn't be seen dead near the ground or admit who they supported.
george chivers wrote:i think you'll find that an awful lot of the new season ticket holders are regular fans that just want to guarantee their seats ahead of the newcomers........ i know i am .
lowe esteem wrote:I agree pre-season friendlies should be cheap. Let Dad bring along the next generation for free. A good long term investment.
The Club has already sent out many very clear messages that "we're now Premier League" and a lot of them are very dismissive of the regular fan. Like the last PL journey, a season-ticket snobbery is being invoked, and the hiking of other prices is part and parcel of this in an attempt to give credibility. I suggest that fans communicate any concerns back to the club soon or resort to the 'feet and seat talking' bit. The transient evolution of the 'average' Saints fan will have been happening quietly over the close-season and regular STH (and any others able to get in) will notice this change on their return to seats next season. There will be many 'in that number' that don't share that same sense of loyalty as many of the regulars on here, and Saints will do well to reconsider this short-term marriage of convenience. Many are only season-ticket holders because they feel they need to, if this is 'market-forces' then Mr Cortese and co. should indeed look more closely on the other side of this gilded coin.
The "New" STH holders who annoy me are the ones who left when we were relegated and have now come back after an absence of 7 years
Not "real" supporters, just status seekers who like to talk about their team being in the "Premier League", down the pub.
Well chaps, you missed the real football, against the real teams, and the glory of the real fight back. Shame really, you might have enjoyed it.
Welcome back to the prawn sandwiches and ego trip. Oh yes, and the likely struggle against relegation. You will remember that no doubt. Perhaps? Or more likely if we are not in the top half of the PL by Xmas you might just leave your seat vacant for the second half of the season.
Welcome Home. We need you!
Fatty x Ford Worker
says...
5:41pm Mon 6 Aug 12
angus mc coatup
says...
6:48pm Mon 6 Aug 12
Fatty x Ford Worker wrote:go on then porky
Watch that mush who plays for Bristol City here is a clue A.D.
I'll have a go, and my first guess is
ALI DIA !!!!!
Baddesley Bill
says...
6:55pm Mon 6 Aug 12
SAINTStevie61163
says...
6:59pm Mon 6 Aug 12
2:38pm Mon 6 Aug 12
I didn't go and I can't imagine anyone at the club gave two sh1ts either way. This is a non-issue.
Now, onto more pressing matters: anyone know how I can get a ticket for the City game? Saints appear to have sold out their allocation in about 10 minutes. Are any more likely to come onto the market?”..........
...................S
t Ret...when i was down th TO today picking up my season ticket they said there was still some left..........the way i understand it is the top allocation is 2,800 which we have already taken up.
franiow
says...
7:28pm Mon 6 Aug 12
One thing I couldn't believe is that the queues were so long for food/drink. I felt sure I could get a cup of tea at half-time...no chance. Extra members of staff might have increased sales and paid for themselves.
ghk230473
says...
7:40pm Mon 6 Aug 12
george chivers wrote:I think the debate about making the ground bigger was answered Saturday
St Retford wrote:See my Slugger comment. I'm talking about people who wouldn't go to home matches in the Championship because it was beneath them. Never mind League 1. Then turn up at the JPT Final at Wembley having paid £150 for a posh seat with Lunch.
I understand where you're coming from, George, but we need to be welcoming to new customers if we're to continue growing as a club. I want people to be packing the ground out every week until the economic case for a new ground is so strong that it's impossible for Nicola not to build us one, and for us then to be pulling in 60,000 every home game. We're not going to get to that stage if we sneer at people who didn't make the away trip to Harlepool on one wet Tuesday night.
I think you are a bit optimistic if you want to see 60,000 in the ground. I think there is the potential for 40 to 45,000. 60,000 for a provincial club is I think a bit over the top.
St.Yorkie
says...
7:50pm Mon 6 Aug 12
The points is about all the cost associated with following a football club week in and week out. It's not just ticket prices - is it?
I can't understand the superiority complex people seem to have because they have a season ticket. I've never owned one, for me they were for old people who couldn't stand up for a game!!! Now it's all about having one to wave a supporters who turn up now and again!
I know Slugger has got one now...I bet he doesn't ram it down our throats with Puppy & Baddersley Bill. Pay your money and take your choice...these guys have.
I do my bit, nothing will ever stop me being a Saints fan (apart from death) and nothing gives me more pleasure than going to a match for a couple of beers and the game itself.
I watched the Ajax game on TV but didn't get the same enjoyment as being there live. I'm not a big fan of friendlies - so no bones on ticket prices.
Baddesley Bill
says...
7:57pm Mon 6 Aug 12
St.Yorkie wrote:I trust we will all be meeting up for an away game or two?...I feel the need to feel superior to you and wave my ST at you! ;O)
There are always those who go on about the blokes who only come to see Premiership football...I couldn't care less!
The points is about all the cost associated with following a football club week in and week out. It's not just ticket prices - is it?
I can't understand the superiority complex people seem to have because they have a season ticket. I've never owned one, for me they were for old people who couldn't stand up for a game!!! Now it's all about having one to wave a supporters who turn up now and again!
I know Slugger has got one now...I bet he doesn't ram it down our throats with Puppy & Baddersley Bill. Pay your money and take your choice...these guys have.
I do my bit, nothing will ever stop me being a Saints fan (apart from death) and nothing gives me more pleasure than going to a match for a couple of beers and the game itself.
I watched the Ajax game on TV but didn't get the same enjoyment as being there live. I'm not a big fan of friendlies - so no bones on ticket prices.
redsnapper
says...
7:58pm Mon 6 Aug 12
On attendance who cares who comes back as long as those who turn up know that we need 10 home wins to ensure we stay where we want to be and St Mary.s becomes a home fortress.
Fatty x Ford Worker
says...
8:00pm Mon 6 Aug 12
angus mc coatup wrote:Watch that mush tear us apart this coming Tuesday Slim!
Fatty x Ford Worker wrote:go on then porky
Watch that mush who plays for Bristol City here is a clue A.D.
I'll have a go, and my first guess is
ALI DIA !!!!!
Matt Allen
says...
8:10pm Mon 6 Aug 12
There are 3 of us who regularly travel down from North London every other week (and Tuesday nights over the past few year).
Even if they were FOC, I don't think I'd come down; don't get me wrong it's nice to see new players, formations etc, but I can hear that via Saints Player and watch the highlight the following day.
I am sure our first game at home to Wigan will be a sell-out - god knows we'll need the points to take us through the next 2 games.
Momentum is the name of the game, and that stupid FC PC clearly didnt like us!
Over the Edge
says...
8:42pm Mon 6 Aug 12
Fatty x Ford Worker wrote:Angus Deaton?
Watch that mush who plays for Bristol City here is a clue A.D.
randre
says...
8:49pm Mon 6 Aug 12
St Retford wrote:Agreed, totally. I lived watching us in the lower league but it delights me that new fans are coming on board.
I understand where you're coming from, George, but we need to be welcoming to new customers if we're to continue growing as a club. I want people to be packing the ground out every week until the economic case for a new ground is so strong that it's impossible for Nicola not to build us one, and for us then to be pulling in 60,000 every home game. We're not going to get to that stage if we sneer at people who didn't make the away trip to Harlepool on one wet Tuesday night.
I welcome them, it is the only way our great club can develop, every fan is welcome.
randre
says...
8:52pm Mon 6 Aug 12
Baddesley Bill wrote:100% agree, great point.
The "Jonny come lately" issue is contentious one....I can understand that. But they ALL need to be made to feel welcome if we are to continue to progress as a Club. We need to continue to welcome new potential newbies to SMS...not give them grief. We are a Club....allcomers welcome to join, become a part of it and perhaps become true passionate supporters too. (No skunts allowed mind!) :O)
angus mc coatup
says...
8:52pm Mon 6 Aug 12
Over the Edge wrote:andrew davies
Fatty x Ford Worker wrote:Angus Deaton?
Watch that mush who plays for Bristol City here is a clue A.D.
randre
says...
8:57pm Mon 6 Aug 12
ghk230473 wrote:How did it?
george chivers wrote:I think the debate about making the ground bigger was answered Saturday
St Retford wrote:See my Slugger comment. I'm talking about people who wouldn't go to home matches in the Championship because it was beneath them. Never mind League 1. Then turn up at the JPT Final at Wembley having paid £150 for a posh seat with Lunch.
I understand where you're coming from, George, but we need to be welcoming to new customers if we're to continue growing as a club. I want people to be packing the ground out every week until the economic case for a new ground is so strong that it's impossible for Nicola not to build us one, and for us then to be pulling in 60,000 every home game. We're not going to get to that stage if we sneer at people who didn't make the away trip to Harlepool on one wet Tuesday night.
I think you are a bit optimistic if you want to see 60,000 in the ground. I think there is the potential for 40 to 45,000. 60,000 for a provincial club is I think a bit over the top.
angus mc coatup
says...
9:05pm Mon 6 Aug 12
Fatty x Ford Worker wrote:Ithink it's albert adomah you are thinking of fatso !!
angus mc coatup wrote:Watch that mush tear us apart this coming Tuesday Slim!
Fatty x Ford Worker wrote:go on then porky
Watch that mush who plays for Bristol City here is a clue A.D.
I'll have a go, and my first guess is
ALI DIA !!!!!
slugger
says...
9:06pm Mon 6 Aug 12
randre wrote:ghk just loves to poke a stick in once in a while ............. we all know that attendances to friendlies mean sod all (although i do agree that £15 was a bit steep).
ghk230473 wrote:How did it?
george chivers wrote:I think the debate about making the ground bigger was answered Saturday
St Retford wrote:See my Slugger comment. I'm talking about people who wouldn't go to home matches in the Championship because it was beneath them. Never mind League 1. Then turn up at the JPT Final at Wembley having paid £150 for a posh seat with Lunch.
I understand where you're coming from, George, but we need to be welcoming to new customers if we're to continue growing as a club. I want people to be packing the ground out every week until the economic case for a new ground is so strong that it's impossible for Nicola not to build us one, and for us then to be pulling in 60,000 every home game. We're not going to get to that stage if we sneer at people who didn't make the away trip to Harlepool on one wet Tuesday night.
I think you are a bit optimistic if you want to see 60,000 in the ground. I think there is the potential for 40 to 45,000. 60,000 for a provincial club is I think a bit over the top.
Velleity
says...
9:09pm Mon 6 Aug 12
He's suggesting that the low attendance at a meaningless pre-season friendly is some kin dof indicator of Saints' general level of support.
What a plank.
Last season he was on here saying that he didn't see Adkins still being manager this year. Shows how much notice you should be taking of his analysis.
slugger
says...
9:12pm Mon 6 Aug 12
St.Yorkie wrote:hi yorkie , you're spot on ............ being a STH just makes sure you get a seat (cheaper than pay as we play i might add) which after missing the coventry game at the end of last season i vowed would never happen again , i bit the bullet and got one ......... i only feel superior to pompey fans and so should all of us ! ........... see you soon buddy .
There are always those who go on about the blokes who only come to see Premiership football...I couldn't care less!
The points is about all the cost associated with following a football club week in and week out. It's not just ticket prices - is it?
I can't understand the superiority complex people seem to have because they have a season ticket. I've never owned one, for me they were for old people who couldn't stand up for a game!!! Now it's all about having one to wave a supporters who turn up now and again!
I know Slugger has got one now...I bet he doesn't ram it down our throats with Puppy & Baddersley Bill. Pay your money and take your choice...these guys have.
I do my bit, nothing will ever stop me being a Saints fan (apart from death) and nothing gives me more pleasure than going to a match for a couple of beers and the game itself.
I watched the Ajax game on TV but didn't get the same enjoyment as being there live. I'm not a big fan of friendlies - so no bones on ticket prices.
ghk230473
says...
9:32pm Mon 6 Aug 12
Velleity wrote:Name calling your level gayiety?
Because GHK is a berk.
He's suggesting that the low attendance at a meaningless pre-season friendly is some kin dof indicator of Saints' general level of support.
What a plank.
Last season he was on here saying that he didn't see Adkins still being manager this year. Shows how much notice you should be taking of his analysis.
Would any uniteds, Leeds, Newcastle or man have 4000 turn up?
We have had some poor attendances last season in cup games and now in friendlies, for a very astute man cortese has missed something here. Surely a thick tw4t like you would have to agree that cheaper tickets= more attending + more food and drink sold, is better?
Also the bookies have Adkins favourite for the sack, I never said I want him gone just a feeling I get. For the record I think he has a lot of potential and deserves a descent chance of managing in the premier league.
Baddesley Bill
says...
9:42pm Mon 6 Aug 12
ghk230473 wrote:...here we go.....
Velleity wrote:Name calling your level gayiety?
Because GHK is a berk.
He's suggesting that the low attendance at a meaningless pre-season friendly is some kin dof indicator of Saints' general level of support.
What a plank.
Last season he was on here saying that he didn't see Adkins still being manager this year. Shows how much notice you should be taking of his analysis.
Would any uniteds, Leeds, Newcastle or man have 4000 turn up?
We have had some poor attendances last season in cup games and now in friendlies, for a very astute man cortese has missed something here. Surely a thick tw4t like you would have to agree that cheaper tickets= more attending + more food and drink sold, is better?
Also the bookies have Adkins favourite for the sack, I never said I want him gone just a feeling I get. For the record I think he has a lot of potential and deserves a descent chance of managing in the premier league.
randre
says...
9:43pm Mon 6 Aug 12
ghk230473 wrote:Velleity is right! You are a skunt aren't you? Come on admit it!!
Velleity wrote:Name calling your level gayiety?
Because GHK is a berk.
He's suggesting that the low attendance at a meaningless pre-season friendly is some kin dof indicator of Saints' general level of support.
What a plank.
Last season he was on here saying that he didn't see Adkins still being manager this year. Shows how much notice you should be taking of his analysis.
Would any uniteds, Leeds, Newcastle or man have 4000 turn up?
We have had some poor attendances last season in cup games and now in friendlies, for a very astute man cortese has missed something here. Surely a thick tw4t like you would have to agree that cheaper tickets= more attending + more food and drink sold, is better?
Also the bookies have Adkins favourite for the sack, I never said I want him gone just a feeling I get. For the record I think he has a lot of potential and deserves a descent chance of managing in the premier league.
slugger
says...
9:45pm Mon 6 Aug 12
ghk230473
says...
9:48pm Mon 6 Aug 12
randre wrote:F11ckin micro morons
ghk230473 wrote:Velleity is right! You are a skunt aren't you? Come on admit it!!
Velleity wrote:Name calling your level gayiety?
Because GHK is a berk.
He's suggesting that the low attendance at a meaningless pre-season friendly is some kin dof indicator of Saints' general level of support.
What a plank.
Last season he was on here saying that he didn't see Adkins still being manager this year. Shows how much notice you should be taking of his analysis.
Would any uniteds, Leeds, Newcastle or man have 4000 turn up?
We have had some poor attendances last season in cup games and now in friendlies, for a very astute man cortese has missed something here. Surely a thick tw4t like you would have to agree that cheaper tickets= more attending + more food and drink sold, is better?
Also the bookies have Adkins favourite for the sack, I never said I want him gone just a feeling I get. For the record I think he has a lot of potential and deserves a descent chance of managing in the premier league.
ghk230473
says...
9:51pm Mon 6 Aug 12
slugger wrote:;D
c'mon boys , let's have a good old row ! lol
randre
says...
9:51pm Mon 6 Aug 12
randre
says...
9:54pm Mon 6 Aug 12
ghk230473 wrote:Brilliant! ;0)
randre wrote:F11ckin micro morons
ghk230473 wrote:Velleity is right! You are a skunt aren't you? Come on admit it!!
Velleity wrote:Name calling your level gayiety?
Because GHK is a berk.
He's suggesting that the low attendance at a meaningless pre-season friendly is some kin dof indicator of Saints' general level of support.
What a plank.
Last season he was on here saying that he didn't see Adkins still being manager this year. Shows how much notice you should be taking of his analysis.
Would any uniteds, Leeds, Newcastle or man have 4000 turn up?
We have had some poor attendances last season in cup games and now in friendlies, for a very astute man cortese has missed something here. Surely a thick tw4t like you would have to agree that cheaper tickets= more attending + more food and drink sold, is better?
Also the bookies have Adkins favourite for the sack, I never said I want him gone just a feeling I get. For the record I think he has a lot of potential and deserves a descent chance of managing in the premier league.
Tony in Liberia
says...
9:58pm Mon 6 Aug 12
THe attendance at this game is meaningless. I, for instance, love Saints and go to a few games a year when I'm here, used to be every game when I was younger and didn't have other calls on my money, but I've only ever been to one friendly (the Mick Channon testimonal a few days after a certain event in '76), because they aren't games; they are kick-arounds. Without a competition involved, they aren't worth watching. In my opinion, they should be free since the game is going to played anyway, as it's for match practice and trrying formations, rather than anything else.
Would you pay to have watched Murray and Federer knocking a few balls around at Wimbledon the day before their final, maybe bringing Nadal and Boris bleedin' BEcker on half-way through the third set becuase they didn't want to play a full game? Or would you pay to watch the final? Well, I wouldn't pay for either as I can't stand tennis, but I'm sure you get my point.
I will pay for a football game, but not to watch a practice. There's a great quote by Miles Davis that I'm sure would be apt here, if only I could remember it!
slugger
says...
9:59pm Mon 6 Aug 12
. not really !
randre
says...
10:07pm Mon 6 Aug 12
slugger wrote:lol :0)
who would like ghk's mobile no ? ....................
. not really !
ghk230473
says...
10:08pm Mon 6 Aug 12
slugger wrote:I'd make a packet if set up as premier rate......... Not a bad idea!
who would like ghk's mobile no ? ....................
. not really !
slugger
says...
10:11pm Mon 6 Aug 12
ghk230473 wrote:lol , we could do a deal and clean up !................. dragon's den moment !
slugger wrote:I'd make a packet if set up as premier rate......... Not a bad idea!
who would like ghk's mobile no ? ....................
. not really !
Saintsayer II
says...
10:33pm Mon 6 Aug 12
slugger wrote:You could never agree on who,s turn it was to use the brain cell never mind a cell phone
ghk230473 wrote:lol , we could do a deal and clean up !................. dragon's den moment !
slugger wrote:I'd make a packet if set up as premier rate......... Not a bad idea!
who would like ghk's mobile no ? ....................
. not really !
slugger
says...
10:44pm Mon 6 Aug 12
Saintsayer II wrote:oi !
slugger wrote:You could never agree on who,s turn it was to use the brain cell never mind a cell phone
ghk230473 wrote:lol , we could do a deal and clean up !................. dragon's den moment !
slugger wrote:I'd make a packet if set up as premier rate......... Not a bad idea!
who would like ghk's mobile no ? ....................
. not really !
OSPREYSAINT
says...
10:53am Tue 7 Aug 12
Velleity
says...
12:36pm Tue 7 Aug 12
ghk230473 wrote:I do rather appear to have touched a nerve.
Velleity wrote:Name calling your level gayiety?
Because GHK is a berk.
He's suggesting that the low attendance at a meaningless pre-season friendly is some kin dof indicator of Saints' general level of support.
What a plank.
Last season he was on here saying that he didn't see Adkins still being manager this year. Shows how much notice you should be taking of his analysis.
Would any uniteds, Leeds, Newcastle or man have 4000 turn up?
We have had some poor attendances last season in cup games and now in friendlies, for a very astute man cortese has missed something here. Surely a thick tw4t like you would have to agree that cheaper tickets= more attending + more food and drink sold, is better?
Also the bookies have Adkins favourite for the sack, I never said I want him gone just a feeling I get. For the record I think he has a lot of potential and deserves a descent chance of managing in the premier league.
However, fighting is just too common for me, I'm afraid, so I don't plan to rise to your bait.
St Retford
says...
12:44pm Tue 7 Aug 12
Out of interest, how many did Pompey get in for their Bolton game?
SO50 Saint
says...
12:53pm Tue 7 Aug 12
SO50 Saint
says...
12:58pm Tue 7 Aug 12
St Retford
says...
1:51pm Tue 7 Aug 12
southamptonareimbredI think you've really struck a blow for the Pompey cause there. Well done you.
scumlol wrote:
hello my imbred friends just thought i come on to see what your paper is like no wounder there`s 10 of you lot on the pompey news sight no news here therel you aint signed no one coz you club is a joke lol you know your ganna get a spanking from man city can wait ;) any way watch this video true story enjoy you imbred clowns XD http://www.youtube.c
om/watch?v=teLtM0tPX
54
lowe esteem
says...
2:12pm Tue 7 Aug 12
ghk230473 wrote:HOW?
george chivers wrote:I think the debate about making the ground bigger was answered Saturday
St Retford wrote:See my Slugger comment. I'm talking about people who wouldn't go to home matches in the Championship because it was beneath them. Never mind League 1. Then turn up at the JPT Final at Wembley having paid £150 for a posh seat with Lunch.
I understand where you're coming from, George, but we need to be welcoming to new customers if we're to continue growing as a club. I want people to be packing the ground out every week until the economic case for a new ground is so strong that it's impossible for Nicola not to build us one, and for us then to be pulling in 60,000 every home game. We're not going to get to that stage if we sneer at people who didn't make the away trip to Harlepool on one wet Tuesday night.
I think you are a bit optimistic if you want to see 60,000 in the ground. I think there is the potential for 40 to 45,000. 60,000 for a provincial club is I think a bit over the top.
lowe esteem
says...
2:13pm Tue 7 Aug 12
ghk230473 wrote:HOW?
george chivers wrote:I think the debate about making the ground bigger was answered Saturday
St Retford wrote:See my Slugger comment. I'm talking about people who wouldn't go to home matches in the Championship because it was beneath them. Never mind League 1. Then turn up at the JPT Final at Wembley having paid £150 for a posh seat with Lunch.
I understand where you're coming from, George, but we need to be welcoming to new customers if we're to continue growing as a club. I want people to be packing the ground out every week until the economic case for a new ground is so strong that it's impossible for Nicola not to build us one, and for us then to be pulling in 60,000 every home game. We're not going to get to that stage if we sneer at people who didn't make the away trip to Harlepool on one wet Tuesday night.
I think you are a bit optimistic if you want to see 60,000 in the ground. I think there is the potential for 40 to 45,000. 60,000 for a provincial club is I think a bit over the top.
lowe esteem
says...
2:13pm Tue 7 Aug 12
ghk230473 wrote:HOW?
george chivers wrote:I think the debate about making the ground bigger was answered Saturday
St Retford wrote:See my Slugger comment. I'm talking about people who wouldn't go to home matches in the Championship because it was beneath them. Never mind League 1. Then turn up at the JPT Final at Wembley having paid £150 for a posh seat with Lunch.
I understand where you're coming from, George, but we need to be welcoming to new customers if we're to continue growing as a club. I want people to be packing the ground out every week until the economic case for a new ground is so strong that it's impossible for Nicola not to build us one, and for us then to be pulling in 60,000 every home game. We're not going to get to that stage if we sneer at people who didn't make the away trip to Harlepool on one wet Tuesday night.
I think you are a bit optimistic if you want to see 60,000 in the ground. I think there is the potential for 40 to 45,000. 60,000 for a provincial club is I think a bit over the top.
lowe esteem
says...
2:13pm Tue 7 Aug 12
ghk230473 wrote:HOW?
george chivers wrote:I think the debate about making the ground bigger was answered Saturday
St Retford wrote:See my Slugger comment. I'm talking about people who wouldn't go to home matches in the Championship because it was beneath them. Never mind League 1. Then turn up at the JPT Final at Wembley having paid £150 for a posh seat with Lunch.
I understand where you're coming from, George, but we need to be welcoming to new customers if we're to continue growing as a club. I want people to be packing the ground out every week until the economic case for a new ground is so strong that it's impossible for Nicola not to build us one, and for us then to be pulling in 60,000 every home game. We're not going to get to that stage if we sneer at people who didn't make the away trip to Harlepool on one wet Tuesday night.
I think you are a bit optimistic if you want to see 60,000 in the ground. I think there is the potential for 40 to 45,000. 60,000 for a provincial club is I think a bit over the top.
lowe esteem
says...
2:38pm Tue 7 Aug 12
Spell it out time:
Just as the corporate areas of the ground will be swollen for the great PL fest, so quite a lot of ST will be taken up by people/businesses who can afford them and don't mind them being unfilled or will sell off individual fixtures at a profit. This happened last time in the PL and is much more likely to happen this time around. The chances of non STH picking up tickets for chosen games have decreased considerably and with no active Membership system in place this is another way of disenfranchising a large number of the support whilst engaging many 'new' fans. The club needs to consider whether it wants to be written off as another 'fast-buck' merchant or wants to engage more fully with a growing fanbase. Careful how you tread Saints, there are only so many potential customers, and they come in all shapes and sizes. Many of us on here have seen the divide and rule regime fall very heavily on it's face in the past, and recognise that true fans are in it for the long-haul and not instantly identifiable by their STH status.
lowe esteem
says...
2:45pm Tue 7 Aug 12
St Retford wrote:Interviews for a new and fitting rival are underway now.
southamptonareimbredI think you've really struck a blow for the Pompey cause there. Well done you.
scumlol wrote:
hello my imbred friends just thought i come on to see what your paper is like no wounder there`s 10 of you lot on the pompey news sight no news here therel you aint signed no one coz you club is a joke lol you know your ganna get a spanking from man city can wait ;) any way watch this video true story enjoy you imbred clowns XD http://www.youtube.c
om/watch?v=teLtM0tPX
54
I think we should look very carefully this time, we don't want to wind down into a poke the village idiot scenario again, do we?
angus mc coatup
says...
4:55pm Tue 7 Aug 12
southamptonareimbredblimey.
scumlol wrote:
hello my imbred friends just thought i come on to see what your paper is like no wounder there`s 10 of you lot on the pompey news sight no news here therel you aint signed no one coz you club is a joke lol you know your ganna get a spanking from man city can wait ;) any way watch this video true story enjoy you imbred clowns XD http://www.youtube.c
om/watch?v=teLtM0tPX
54
Is this the thickest thick skunt ever.
what is an imbred, and what does wounder mean.
randre
says...
11:03pm Tue 7 Aug 12
St Retford wrote:Did you understand what he said? I'm still struggling with the language of skuntish.
southamptonareimbredI think you've really struck a blow for the Pompey cause there. Well done you.
scumlol wrote:
hello my imbred friends just thought i come on to see what your paper is like no wounder there`s 10 of you lot on the pompey news sight no news here therel you aint signed no one coz you club is a joke lol you know your ganna get a spanking from man city can wait ;) any way watch this video true story enjoy you imbred clowns XD http://www.youtube.c
om/watch?v=teLtM0tPX
54
randre
says...
11:12pm Tue 7 Aug 12
angus mc coatup wrote:Good question, I am struggling to understand the writings of this particular breed of Skunt.
southamptonareimbredblimey.
scumlol wrote:
hello my imbred friends just thought i come on to see what your paper is like no wounder there`s 10 of you lot on the pompey news sight no news here therel you aint signed no one coz you club is a joke lol you know your ganna get a spanking from man city can wait ;) any way watch this video true story enjoy you imbred clowns XD http://www.youtube.c
om/watch?v=teLtM0tPX
54
Is this the thickest thick skunt ever.
what is an imbred, and what does wounder mean.
angus mc coatup
says...
11:43pm Tue 7 Aug 12
randre wrote:I think this could be a previously undiscovered dialect of the skuntish language.It's seems to be very much like gibberish,only a bit less understandable.
angus mc coatup wrote:Good question, I am struggling to understand the writings of this particular breed of Skunt.
southamptonareimbredblimey.
scumlol wrote:
hello my imbred friends just thought i come on to see what your paper is like no wounder there`s 10 of you lot on the pompey news sight no news here therel you aint signed no one coz you club is a joke lol you know your ganna get a spanking from man city can wait ;) any way watch this video true story enjoy you imbred clowns XD http://www.youtube.c
om/watch?v=teLtM0tPX
54
Is this the thickest thick skunt ever.
what is an imbred, and what does wounder mean.
this could be a language that will soon probably become extinct.
remind you of anyone!!!!!!
nannupsaint
says...
12:38am Wed 8 Aug 12
randre
says...
8:37pm Wed 8 Aug 12
angus mc coatup wrote:Now you come to mention it, it does ring a few bells!
randre wrote:I think this could be a previously undiscovered dialect of the skuntish language.It's seems to be very much like gibberish,only a bit less understandable.
angus mc coatup wrote:Good question, I am struggling to understand the writings of this particular breed of Skunt.
southamptonareimbredblimey.
scumlol wrote:
hello my imbred friends just thought i come on to see what your paper is like no wounder there`s 10 of you lot on the pompey news sight no news here therel you aint signed no one coz you club is a joke lol you know your ganna get a spanking from man city can wait ;) any way watch this video true story enjoy you imbred clowns XD http://www.youtube.c
om/watch?v=teLtM0tPX
54
Is this the thickest thick skunt ever.
what is an imbred, and what does wounder mean.
this could be a language that will soon probably become extinct.
remind you of anyone!!!!!!
Talking of bells, time is ticking for them there skunts!
#1saintsfan says...
12:20pm Mon 6 Aug 12