Three points from the Falkirk game would be invaluable in the club’s drive up the table and a big home support to cheer the team is bound to help but the hope will be that some ‘fringe’ fans will be re-introduced to the habit of attending matches.
Leann Dempster put it this way on the official site, “Our season ticket holders can play an ambassador role for the team by encouraging people to come along. The idea isn’t about giving a voucher to someone waiting at the turnstile, planning to pay in. It’s about our fans recreating the “Nancy” atmosphere inside Fir Park to help inspire the team to victory.”
“I am sure everyone will know a ‘Well fan who can’t or won’t go to games for whatever reason. It’s those people we want encourage along to show off just how well we are playing, whilst at the same time, helping to build a big atmosphere for what will be a vital game if we’re to secure a European spot for the third time in three years.”
The club’s income from the game will take a serious hit as it is likely that most of the season ticket vouchers will find their way to those who regularly pay at the gate (despite Leann’s hopes) but no doubt a few lapsed supporters might be brought back into the fold.
Many fans are of the view that price is still a major barrier to increased attendances at matches and although occasional special offers can play a part in the promotion of the SPL, they will be of little help as the disincentive will be back in place the following week. How many Falkirk fans will take up a seat in the south Stand for £22? And how many Motherwell fans will there be at Parkhead for a £25 ticket when the game is live on $ky $ports?