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Our home fixture vs Saracens next season is to be played in Philadelphia USA... this is a home fixture for the club so Season Ticket holders who can't make the trip will be missing out.
Got to say I don't agree with this, I'll be away volunteering overseas in Africa so it doesn't affect me but I feel for the supporters who will miss a home game and weren't told when the renewed their season ticket.
The club should be loyal to the supporters who have followed the club through the dark days and make all the home fixtures accessible to home fans, I don't mind missing out a home game but hardcore supporters might feel differently.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 17/05/2017 17:01 by falconsfan07.
Got to say I don't agree with this, I'll be away volunteering overseas in Africa so it doesn't affect me but I feel for the supporters who will miss a home game and weren't told when the renewed their season ticket.
The club should be loyal to the supporters who have followed the club through the dark days and make all the home fixtures accessible to home fans, I don't mind missing out a home game but hardcore supporters might feel differently.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 17/05/2017 17:01 by falconsfan07.
Re: Falcons to play league game in USA/Season ticket holders to lose a home game....
pityacker
(IP Logged)
17 May, 2017 16:49
Bitterly disappointed we only get 11 home Premier games now reduced to 10 and not seeing the best team in Europe to boot. Don't know what compensation to us season ticket holders they are going to offer but I can't see it compensating for missing this game. Disgusted.
Re: Falcons to play league game in USA/Season ticket holders to lose a home game....
cumbrian_falcon
(IP Logged)
17 May, 2017 16:49
Glad i didnt renew my season ticket now to be honest. Shocking way to treat season ticket holders. Other than a one off payment is it really going to grow the falcons brand. Also means falcons fans miss seeing their side play one of the best sides in the league at the minute.
Re: Falcons to play league game in USA/Season ticket holders to lose a home game....
sparkyweb
(IP Logged)
17 May, 2017 16:52
I have some mixed views on this. Being from down south, I am not a season ticket holder so i don't have the issues of being denied a home match, compensation etc. and can hopefully look objectively. However it is taking vital revenue from the club etc. (perhaps that is being compensated elsewhere?)
It is good to see the game being taken to a fanbase and that is really good for all.
I did initially also think about loosing home advantage (which is starting to be a fortress) but as its sarries i'm not so sure we should worry?
Although i note this is the second time its happened to Sarries, spare a thought for their fans.....
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 17/05/2017 16:56 by sparkyweb.
It is good to see the game being taken to a fanbase and that is really good for all.
I did initially also think about loosing home advantage (which is starting to be a fortress) but as its sarries i'm not so sure we should worry?
Although i note this is the second time its happened to Sarries, spare a thought for their fans.....
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 17/05/2017 16:56 by sparkyweb.
Very shabby that this was not made clear before people renewed season tickets.
Had been planning to buy in to a season ticket but think I'll wait to see what they do to the prices of them now.
Re: Falcons to play league game in USA/Season ticket holders to lose a home game....
falconsfan07
(IP Logged)
17 May, 2017 16:56
Quote:pityacker
Bitterly disappointed we only get 11 home Premier games now reduced to 10 and not seeing the best team in Europe to boot. Don't know what compensation to us season ticket holders they are going to offer but I can't see it compensating for missing this game. Disgusted.
I agree Pityacker,
I attended every home game last season, and just over half the season before.... when people pay for top rugby they deserve to see it, sarries would definitely bring that and it is a huge bonus for the season ticket holders to see the best team in Europe at KP...
I've already renewed but did so knowing i would be away.... dissapointed for the loyal supporters of this club who are losing a home game when they frankly deserve so much more
Quote:alas
Very shabby that this was not made clear before people renewed season tickets.
Agreed I wasn't made aware either...
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 17/05/2017 16:57 by falconsfan07.
Well, that's my anticipation for next season firmly knocked on the head. I have been conned and bitterly resent this.I hope I get a refund on part of my season ticket.
Another attempt by rugby to morph into football by having complete disregard for the paying customers.
Games like this are great for getting young fans hooked. As well as seeing the falcons they can see england players they have seen on the tele .
Games like this are great for getting young fans hooked. As well as seeing the falcons they can see england players they have seen on the tele .
Just read the whole article and noted th following
Quote:"We do appreciate some of our supporters will be disappointed by one of our regular home games being moved.
We will be in touch with season ticket members and corporate sponsors directly to inform them of our compensatory offers.
Quote:Kath...
Just read the whole article and noted th followingQuote:"We do appreciate some of our supporters will be disappointed by one of our regular home games being moved.
We will be in touch with season ticket members and corporate sponsors directly to inform them of our compensatory offers.
Which translates as we will see what the back lash is before deciding what we offer
Re: Falcons to play league game in USA/Season ticket holders to lose a home game....
pa8
(IP Logged)
17 May, 2017 17:10
Quote:sparkyweb
Although i note this is the second time its happened to Sarries, spare a thought for their fans.....
Wasn't their last game in the US a home game for London Irish ? What exactly are the Sarries fans missing out on ? They still get all their home games and an away game is now on neutral ground.
Note...NOT compensation but compensatory offers, so free tickets for mates, beer vouchers, cheap merchandise....Not interested in anything other than part refund for what I've paid.
This hasn't just been thought up it was rumoured long ago and when we all queued to renew/buy our season tickets was there a note to say "by the way you aren't getting your home game v the best team in Europe on that ticket" dreadful news and for Hogan to say he realises some supporters will be upset is a huge understatement.
A decent offer of compensation would be a ticket for the 2019 champions' cup final at SJP, but it will probably be something hugely exciting like a voucher to spend on club merchandise.
I can't believe this wasn't known before the STs were on sale.
As has been said Falcons supporters get the fuzzy end of the lollipop in more ways than one. I will not be interested in compensatory offers just money back and a bit of honesty before profit.
I couldn't give a d*** about the American market.I would be happier if we developed the Pacific Nations or the 2nd tier in Europe. But no money in that I guess.
I watch rugby because its not football and hasn't got the smell of commercialism yet but its slowly coming to the point where I might give up supporting.
Bitterly disappointed in the management.
As has been said Falcons supporters get the fuzzy end of the lollipop in more ways than one. I will not be interested in compensatory offers just money back and a bit of honesty before profit.
I couldn't give a d*** about the American market.I would be happier if we developed the Pacific Nations or the 2nd tier in Europe. But no money in that I guess.
I watch rugby because its not football and hasn't got the smell of commercialism yet but its slowly coming to the point where I might give up supporting.
Bitterly disappointed in the management.
Quote:rubyrhone
I can't believe this wasn't known before the STs were on sale.
As has been said Falcons supporters get the fuzzy end of the lollipop in more ways than one. I will not be interested in compensatory offers just money back and a bit of honesty before profit.
I couldn't give a d*** about the American market.I would be happier if we developed the Pacific Nations or the 2nd tier in Europe. But no money in that I guess.
I watch rugby because its not football and hasn't got the smell of commercialism yet but its slowly coming to the point where I might give up
supporting.
Bitterly disappointed in the management.
Well said
I understand some people are disappointed but I think this can have a mutually beneficial effect.
I understand it's one game less for some season ticket holders, but Iets not forget that most of the money in most sports is in generated by Tv. And rugby fans have to accept that this is the way things are going. NFL do it successfully in London and other European countries. Obviously these games generate money for the game and publicise the sport.
I would like to think there is a mutual benefit in the end, otherwise the club wouldn't do it.
I understand it's one game less for some season ticket holders, but Iets not forget that most of the money in most sports is in generated by Tv. And rugby fans have to accept that this is the way things are going. NFL do it successfully in London and other European countries. Obviously these games generate money for the game and publicise the sport.
I would like to think there is a mutual benefit in the end, otherwise the club wouldn't do it.
Another unhappy punter here. Best team in Europe would be great to watch.
Quote:lizard118
I understand some people are disappointed but I think this can have a mutually beneficial effect.
I understand it's one game less for some season ticket holders, but Iets not forget that most of the money in most sports is in generated by Tv. And rugby fans have to accept that this is the way things are going. NFL do it successfully in London and other European countries. Obviously these games generate money for the game and publicise the sport.
I would like to think there is a mutual benefit in the end, otherwise the club wouldn't do it.
I'd be keen to see whether London Irish and their fans would agree on that one
I rather think we the Season Ticket Holders have been miss-sold (a bit like PPI) - Cue the lawyers
Not Happy, Not happy at all, its not just the loss of a home match, it is the loss of THAT home match. What about the effect on the team, to travel all that distance there and back and be prepared for the next match. I certainly don't see the Falcons v Saracens as a forgone result for them but it just got harder Somewhere in this deal must be a big sweetener for the club. This is not a nice way to announce this fixture.
Re: Falcons to play league game in USA/Season ticket holders to lose a home game....
Waldo
(IP Logged)
17 May, 2017 17:59
Quote:pa8Quote:sparkyweb
Although i note this is the second time its happened to Sarries, spare a thought for their fans.....
Wasn't their last game in the US a home game for London Irish ? What exactly are the Sarries fans missing out on ? They still get all their home games and an away game is now on neutral ground.
Sarries Fan in Peace - what we are missing out on is coming up there to play you on your own turf .
Falcons away is a popular fixture - except this time it is too far away !
Quote:Timeshock!
Not Happy, Not happy at all, its not just the loss of a home match, it is the loss of THAT home match. What about the effect on the team, to travel all that distance there and back and be prepared for the next match. I certainly don't see the Falcons v Saracens as a forgone result for them but it just got harder Somewhere in this deal must be a big sweetener for the club. This is not a nice way to announce this fixture.
I've always seen Newcastle as a small family club, everyone knows each other, players are local and have a good connection with the fans and the club puts the people who support them first... that went out the window with this, gone straight to the commercial side of things and probably made it harder for us to get anything from the game....the club always talks about how the fans lift the boys...
Won't they need us against the back to back Champions of Europe? Can't believe fans weren't made aware when renewing.... poor move by the club and taking away a game against the best team in the country which a lot of the loyal supporters at KP will have wanted to see.
This stinks!
Folks
Understand some of the frustrations and hopefully can clear a few comments up that have been raised.
Compensation will either be money back, credits to other games, additional tickets or a ticket to the game in the US if you are able to go. Its your choice which one you have and full details very soon
This opportunity has come around very quickly. We did not know that this was a possibility back in February when STs went on sale. If so we would have sold 16 matches not 17.
The commercial return for the club is VERY favourable. Whether we like it or not the success of a Premiership Rugby club is based on revenues generated. We are still a loss-making club (over £2m last year) and rely on our owner's generosity every year to continue. If we can off-set that loss in other ways then we have to consider them.
It is great for the club to be considered for this event. The US is a big opportunity for the Premiership. Already NBC pay good money to cover it. By playing games there we show support for the US market and it will lead to increased revenues.
The club always puts its ST members first. We distributed more RWC tickets to matches than any club bar one other. We continue to offer more England International tickets to ST members than ANY club in the country. We have offered free tickets to Premiership Sevens for a number of years for ST members. No one will lose money with this game being moved and refunds on a pro-rata basis will be offered if that's what members want.
Happy to take individual comments via email as usual on mick.hogan@newcastle-falcons.co.uk
Regards
Mick Hogan
Managing Director
Understand some of the frustrations and hopefully can clear a few comments up that have been raised.
Compensation will either be money back, credits to other games, additional tickets or a ticket to the game in the US if you are able to go. Its your choice which one you have and full details very soon
This opportunity has come around very quickly. We did not know that this was a possibility back in February when STs went on sale. If so we would have sold 16 matches not 17.
The commercial return for the club is VERY favourable. Whether we like it or not the success of a Premiership Rugby club is based on revenues generated. We are still a loss-making club (over £2m last year) and rely on our owner's generosity every year to continue. If we can off-set that loss in other ways then we have to consider them.
It is great for the club to be considered for this event. The US is a big opportunity for the Premiership. Already NBC pay good money to cover it. By playing games there we show support for the US market and it will lead to increased revenues.
The club always puts its ST members first. We distributed more RWC tickets to matches than any club bar one other. We continue to offer more England International tickets to ST members than ANY club in the country. We have offered free tickets to Premiership Sevens for a number of years for ST members. No one will lose money with this game being moved and refunds on a pro-rata basis will be offered if that's what members want.
Happy to take individual comments via email as usual on mick.hogan@newcastle-falcons.co.uk
Regards
Mick Hogan
Managing Director
Quite simple as far as I'm concerned. I paid £483 for a concession Season Ticket plus annual Car Park pass. This was said to cover 17 home games so equates to £28.41 per game. I expect no less than a refund of this amount to my Credit Card with which I paid. I do not intend to accept vouchers for use in club shop, complimentary tickets for another match or the like.
This was mooted last season vs Sarries I think for a New York venue. Not overly happy, particularly as it's our home game where at KP, we'd be at least hope to take a losing BP. As it is, Sarries are already the bigger team by far...so it should be their home game,not ours. We're being sent over as cannon fodder in my opinion. I still hope to go, and am in a fortunate position given you employer flying direct...but still not overly impressed.
A pro-rata reduction is hardly being fair to season ticket holders. A league game against the best club side in Europe is worth a lot more than watching squad players in the Anglo-Welsh and Challenge Cups.
Quote:.Mick Hogan
The club always puts its ST members first.
Sorry to intrude, but this is clearly not the case in this instance and I am gobsmacked how you can pretend that you are putting your ST members first for this. You are quite obviously putting commercial interest ahead of your loyal ST holders - you have even explained as much in the rest of your post. You are robbing them of a game against no other than the best team in England, the best team in Europe and quite possibly the best team in the world and best domestic team England have ever produced. When many will have bought their STs they will have done so lookign forward to facing a Saracens team outside of the International window and therefore filled with the likes of Itoje, Vunipola x 2, Farrell, Goode etc. By offering compensation I think it is showing a bit of naivety as to what fans want, which is wanting to watch their team tested against the best in the world. Shame on you.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 17/05/2017 18:25 by WorcesterSauce.
Mick, how can you honestly say ST holders are always out first in the same post as saying commercial interests have been out first.
Please don't patronise your supporters like this. Just say that money is more important and be honest man.
Clearly you've annoyed your loyal fan base with this decision. At least front up and don't try and spin this like a politician, you'll only annoy people more
Please don't patronise your supporters like this. Just say that money is more important and be honest man.
Clearly you've annoyed your loyal fan base with this decision. At least front up and don't try and spin this like a politician, you'll only annoy people more
Must admit I am split on the announcement
I am disappointed that I will lose a home game
However I will be trying everything I can to get out to the States for the match. It will be a great experience
Even if the club had announced the game before ST went in sale I would still have bought one regardless
How many people wouldn't have bought their ST knowing 1 game would be in the US?
I am disappointed that I will lose a home game
However I will be trying everything I can to get out to the States for the match. It will be a great experience
Even if the club had announced the game before ST went in sale I would still have bought one regardless
How many people wouldn't have bought their ST knowing 1 game would be in the US?
How about the club charter a flight for the supporters just an idea?
I'm clearly in a minority on here but I'm fine about it. As a season ticket holder I'll be compensated in one way or another and I'm happy at the idea it makes the club a lot of much - needed money.
Quote:zackary71
is, Sarries are already the bigger team by far...so it should be their home game,not ours. .
Exactly.
It would be really nice if MH (or someone) could explain why it is not being treated as a Sarries home game
If it's THAT lucrative why not subsidise ST holders travel costs?
Although disappointed that we won't be seeing the star studded Sarries at KP i fully understand the clubs reasoning for this.
As Mick has already stated this is a massive opportunity for Falcons which will provide massive and much needed financial revenue for the club (and I am sure that the management gave it very careful consideration)
Our owner continues to provide funding (out of his own pocket) and as mentioned lost £2m last year.
The club has intimated that they are going to compensate season tickets holders for this game and I really fail to understand some of the comments above!
Over recent months posters have been commenting on here that we need a quality fly half (which we have since signed) a top class loosehead...and this type of player and that type of player so I would ask the question....how do we fund these players?
Do we just expect Semore to continue to keep dipping into his own pocket?
Please do not not let this overshadow what has been massive progress made by the club over the last few years!
I personally feel that while I can really understand some initial disappointment at this announcement some of the comments are pretty harsh.
The management has I'm sure the clubs and supporters best interests in mind and if this is what we need to do to ensure a "strong financial and long term viability of the club" then they have my 100% support!
As Mick has already stated this is a massive opportunity for Falcons which will provide massive and much needed financial revenue for the club (and I am sure that the management gave it very careful consideration)
Our owner continues to provide funding (out of his own pocket) and as mentioned lost £2m last year.
The club has intimated that they are going to compensate season tickets holders for this game and I really fail to understand some of the comments above!
Over recent months posters have been commenting on here that we need a quality fly half (which we have since signed) a top class loosehead...and this type of player and that type of player so I would ask the question....how do we fund these players?
Do we just expect Semore to continue to keep dipping into his own pocket?
Please do not not let this overshadow what has been massive progress made by the club over the last few years!
I personally feel that while I can really understand some initial disappointment at this announcement some of the comments are pretty harsh.
The management has I'm sure the clubs and supporters best interests in mind and if this is what we need to do to ensure a "strong financial and long term viability of the club" then they have my 100% support!
Mixed feelings about this one, mick since the Falcons are the (HOME) team I hope our revenue from the game is a hell of a lot more than sarries cut?
Given sarries have the big names which brand is gonna do better out of this. Hope we are getting some serious cash to justify annoying most of the supporters.
Don't the Falcons have a fan base that stretches from the Scottish Borders to Teesside?Is that not geographically big enough?
To be fair to Mick I'd be quite happy with a (plane) ticket to the match.
I too am 50/50, yes on one hand I'm pee'd off we are going to miss a great game against a world class outfit and have been stitched up, but on the other hand our club is of very limited finances and unfortunately if the financial gains of this fixture help ease that problem a little or allow us to reinvest in bigger things players/ stadium then I suppose it has to be done.
What's the chances of BT screening it for free as I don't have it???
What's the chances of BT screening it for free as I don't have it???
Not happy BIG TIME....I bought my season ticket to watch live competitive rugby, I don't go to cup games but do attend A games at KP. Money back and no 'offers' considered.
It is what it is. Would prefer to be watching the game live at KP but we need to balance the books. Semore deserves the benefit of the doubt on this one.
I can see why Irish would be asked, it gave a chance for our American friends with surnames beginning with O' and Mc and who once saw an Irish setter a chance to exercise their tenuous connection to their Motherland by supporting a team with 'Irish' in the title. As for us, I can just see the good burghers of Philadelphia saying 'Newcastle Falcons.....err......who?".
If I was a season ticket holder I'd be spitting feathers to be honest, however, I'm assuming the club are being remunerated quite handsomely for this. Bearing in mind Mick and the team have very limited avenues open for additional commercial ventures, this could be the difference between a really quality signing and a journeyman signing.
It is however a huge shame that 8,000 - 10,000 of us won't get a chance to watch the best team in Europe and some great players. Plus the last time this happened it was an awful game in a rather strange atmosphere.
If I was a season ticket holder I'd be spitting feathers to be honest, however, I'm assuming the club are being remunerated quite handsomely for this. Bearing in mind Mick and the team have very limited avenues open for additional commercial ventures, this could be the difference between a really quality signing and a journeyman signing.
It is however a huge shame that 8,000 - 10,000 of us won't get a chance to watch the best team in Europe and some great players. Plus the last time this happened it was an awful game in a rather strange atmosphere.
Quote:falconbear
It is what it is. Would prefer to be watching the game live at KP but we need to balance the books. Semore deserves the benefit of the doubt on this one.
Fair enough, let the club balance the books but when I consider if it is worth me dropping a days pay to get to a Friday night match and ensure that the Memsahb and No1 Child also attend, I might just balance my books in favour of other things.
Season ticket money for 3, which was put aside for buying them at the start of next month, will now pay for the 6 Nations Trip to Rome at the end of March.
Quote:.Mick Hogan
The club always puts its ST members first.
Except when we can make more money by shafting them.
Shameful.
It would have been more palatable if this had been announced before season tickets were renewed and then us ST holders could have made a decision.
I understand the commercial aspects of it but I want to see rugby and don't want 'compensatory offers'. I also have no doubt the club will have expected a backlash from supporters over this.
I do sympathise with the club but am still very disappointed only because I am missing a game.
It is one game and I will get over it, particularly when we make a marquee signing from the revenue made.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 17/05/2017 19:57 by DB23.
I understand the commercial aspects of it but I want to see rugby and don't want 'compensatory offers'. I also have no doubt the club will have expected a backlash from supporters over this.
I do sympathise with the club but am still very disappointed only because I am missing a game.
It is one game and I will get over it, particularly when we make a marquee signing from the revenue made.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 17/05/2017 19:57 by DB23.
Quote:Exiled Falcon
If I was a season ticket holder I'd be spitting feathers to be honest, however, I'm assuming the club are being remunerated quite handsomely for this. Bearing in mind Mick and the team have very limited avenues open for additional commercial ventures, this could be the difference between a really quality signing and a journeyman signing.
If Mick and the team p155 off X thousand ST holders over this is there any amount of compensation that will ever make up for the lost goodwill/tolerance. Most, if not all, of the forward steps made between fans and board, the feel good factor and optimism for next season are probably now negated because of this.
Wouldn't a better idea be for all the Premiership teams to play 23 games, with the extra game overseas? I know premiership football clubs talked about something like that.
Yes, I am disappointed to be missing the game against the world's best club side but I also understand the commercial realities. Let's see what the compensation turns out to be.
In the meantime rather a lot of people need to pick up their toys and dummies and get real.
And as for lawyers........ I hope that was tongue in cheek rather than sheer stupidity - but give the history of a quiet tannoy, I'm not too sure!
In the meantime rather a lot of people need to pick up their toys and dummies and get real.
And as for lawyers........ I hope that was tongue in cheek rather than sheer stupidity - but give the history of a quiet tannoy, I'm not too sure!
I still don't get why are the Falcons the home team?
Quote:rubyrhone
I can't believe this wasn't known before the STs were on sale.
As has been said Falcons supporters get the fuzzy end of the lollipop in more ways than one. I will not be interested in compensatory offers just money back and a bit of honesty before profit.
I couldn't give a d*** about the American market.I would be happier if we developed the Pacific Nations or the 2nd tier in Europe. But no money in that I guess.
I watch rugby because its not football and hasn't got the smell of commercialism yet but its slowly coming to the point where I might give up supporting.
Bitterly disappointed in the management.
Stopped reading at "I watch Rugby because it's not football".
If Rugby doesn't have any ambition to crack North America and China then it may as well pack up to be honest. Not keen on losing a home game either but at least it's going somewhere we're it'll have some impact.
Falcons attendances at home v Saracens:
16/17 - 7,899
15/16 - 5,200
14/15 - 9,192
Not sure what the average attendances are for these seasons, but I'd say Sarries at home is one of the games which will be the best attended each season.
Surely, it would make sense to move a game with a historically lower attendance to improve revenue. That would also benefit another club without the worldwide exposure a club like saracens has.
16/17 - 7,899
15/16 - 5,200
14/15 - 9,192
Not sure what the average attendances are for these seasons, but I'd say Sarries at home is one of the games which will be the best attended each season.
Surely, it would make sense to move a game with a historically lower attendance to improve revenue. That would also benefit another club without the worldwide exposure a club like saracens has.
Not comparable I know but Saints have had a CEO obsessed with playing at Milton Keynes and he made the same type of comments as your MD. Our new Chairman thankfully is much less enthusiastic about losing home advantage and we will not be heading to Buckinghamshire for the forseeable future.
Sympathies, we are all but numbers after all.....
Sympathies, we are all but numbers after all.....
CharlieDog What a bloody cheek you have got!
Yes it was tongue in cheek I would not do that but I bet others would as for the tanoy system you are getting a better one so he can scream at you even louder.
to coin a phrase............. don't put the blame on me
Yes it was tongue in cheek I would not do that but I bet others would as for the tanoy system you are getting a better one so he can scream at you even louder.
to coin a phrase............. don't put the blame on me
Just read this & was initially heading for a Class A hissy fit, about to phone Mick & have a good rant on behalf of supporters. Before I even got as far as the message board however I had calmed down a bit & guessed that this is where the dosh has come from for some of our, ahem, unexpected signings, not just Flood.
If losing one home game means we add a couple of top quality players that we wouldn't otherwise be able to afford then I will take the hit on one condition; put the game on big screens at KP, and if feeling humble enough give us free beer.
And curry.
And throw in some naan bread too.
Maybe some crisps.
If for example we have swapped one home game for Flood & Matavesi, I will kick the cat & trust that Semore & Co know what they are doing.
Yes I am being deliberately flippant & trying to look on the bright side, but within the last week or so I commended Semore on here for a well-run ship, the best it has been for a very long time, and I have faith that he & the management took this decision with the best interests of the whole club, including our supporters, very much at heart. If this is what it takes to give us a decent chance of a top half finish next season, count me in.
If losing one home game means we add a couple of top quality players that we wouldn't otherwise be able to afford then I will take the hit on one condition; put the game on big screens at KP, and if feeling humble enough give us free beer.
And curry.
And throw in some naan bread too.
Maybe some crisps.
If for example we have swapped one home game for Flood & Matavesi, I will kick the cat & trust that Semore & Co know what they are doing.
Yes I am being deliberately flippant & trying to look on the bright side, but within the last week or so I commended Semore on here for a well-run ship, the best it has been for a very long time, and I have faith that he & the management took this decision with the best interests of the whole club, including our supporters, very much at heart. If this is what it takes to give us a decent chance of a top half finish next season, count me in.
I am concerned by this action.
It is not an issue for me personally as I have rarely been able to make a game so I will not lose a ticket.
However my concerns stem from the fact that it will be so commercially beneficial - I doubt we are talking millions in revenue, so if this is the case I wonder about our long term sustainability.
Secondly the last club to do this was relegated and I doubt the cost of that and the set back in the team's development would be financially less than any benefit received from this.
Thirdly why is it our home game - it is unfair to us in the league not least as we now play a neutral venue and the travel is likely to effect our subsequent match performance unless it is a break from the AP. I am not worried about other cups - sorry...
Sarries will benefit from a neutral away game meaning other clubs competing for the playoffs will be disadvantaged on points. (So if you are Tigers, Chiefs, Wasps, Bath etc you've got an extra hurdle at KP - seem fair?)
Who in the US has heard of us or cares about us, we mean nothing there (rugby hardly does). Many rugby fans from tri nation countries haven't heard of us so why would they? It will be totally irrelevant to growing rugby or Falcons future (at least positively).
Why is the AP growing rugby in the US anyway? Surely that is World Rugby' s remit and they should look to feature US teams with international sides playing more.
Very bad idea in my mind, but money talks. Not the best day in the club's history.
It is not an issue for me personally as I have rarely been able to make a game so I will not lose a ticket.
However my concerns stem from the fact that it will be so commercially beneficial - I doubt we are talking millions in revenue, so if this is the case I wonder about our long term sustainability.
Secondly the last club to do this was relegated and I doubt the cost of that and the set back in the team's development would be financially less than any benefit received from this.
Thirdly why is it our home game - it is unfair to us in the league not least as we now play a neutral venue and the travel is likely to effect our subsequent match performance unless it is a break from the AP. I am not worried about other cups - sorry...
Sarries will benefit from a neutral away game meaning other clubs competing for the playoffs will be disadvantaged on points. (So if you are Tigers, Chiefs, Wasps, Bath etc you've got an extra hurdle at KP - seem fair?)
Who in the US has heard of us or cares about us, we mean nothing there (rugby hardly does). Many rugby fans from tri nation countries haven't heard of us so why would they? It will be totally irrelevant to growing rugby or Falcons future (at least positively).
Why is the AP growing rugby in the US anyway? Surely that is World Rugby' s remit and they should look to feature US teams with international sides playing more.
Very bad idea in my mind, but money talks. Not the best day in the club's history.
Great business by the falcons,even better if they offer us season ticket holders something special on the day.
Quote:Monkey1
within the last week or so I commended Semore on here for a well-run ship, the best it has been for a very long time, and I have faith that he & the management took this decision with the best interests of the whole club, including our supporters, very much at heart. If this is what it takes to give us a decent chance of a top half finish next season, count me in.
Spot on Monkey.
Living overseas I am not a season ticketholder so I am not as affected by this as some people, however I think many of the comments on this thread are way over the top. It's a professional sport and if we are to compete we need to maximise revenue from as many sources as possible. We should be thankful for an owner and management team that are developing the club in the right way.
IF the financial reward is significant, I don't see that it's that big an issue. We are a business, running at a significant loss, year on year. This is partly/ mainly because not enough people in the North East are bothered enough by what goes on at KP to pay to turn up. If they were, we'd fill our relatively small ground every AP home home. We don't. We are blessed in having SK who has dipped deep into his pockets to put us where we are. It is unreasonable (and not realistic) to expect this to continue forever. Of course it's disappointing to lose one of our eleven AP home games but if (big if) that helps to make us more financially viable and more likely to continue to compete in this league, then it's a necessary evil. I'm sure a big screen or two on match day and some food and beer would help to overcome some of the disappointment.
We're all fans and our relationship with the club is defined by this. £2 million loss (or more) a year is not sustainable.
We're all fans and our relationship with the club is defined by this. £2 million loss (or more) a year is not sustainable.
Disappointing because would like to see Sarries but there must be a good reason for it and maybe a sponsor from US could be found if it goes down well.
Only criticism of the club really is that maybe would have been best to clearly state compensation offers in the announcement and also what happens with season ticket sales for next season from now.
Could some special screening at KP be arranged with a bit of an American themed party?
Only criticism of the club really is that maybe would have been best to clearly state compensation offers in the announcement and also what happens with season ticket sales for next season from now.
Could some special screening at KP be arranged with a bit of an American themed party?
Quote:steve1888
Disappointing because would like to see Sarries but there must be a good reason for it and maybe a sponsor from US could be found if it goes down well.
Only criticism of the club really is that maybe would have been best to clearly state compensation offers in the announcement and also what happens with season ticket sales for next season from now.
Could some special screening at KP be arranged with a bit of an American themed party?
And what time of day (BST) is the kick off ?
Had the club said from the outset that my Season Ticket didn't include the Sarries game and reduced cost accordingly - would I have renewed? - most probably yes - I don't particularly like seeing us hammered by anyone and aint that turned on by seeing famous names do it on our home pitch. But ...the potential for a US match was mentioned some time ago on this forum and MH suggesting this came out of nowhere doesn't cut much ice. 'Get the season tickets sold then handle the fall out' seems much more likely. People just don't like feeling manipulated and I concur with the comment re playing politics above. If this has funded Toby or other signings that sounds a good deal - but where does it stop? lets play 2..3 games in the US and make more money? The VAST majority of Falcons fans can only dream of flying off to the States to watch this game...cloud cuckoo land to offer free match tickets as compensation when those who can afford to fly and pay accommodation can afford a match ticket. It's the sense that we are being taken for granted that perhaps grates most.
SK has been our saviour, but if its time for him to start reclaiming losses due to true support in the North East being insufficient to sustain a Premiership team - then perhaps we have all been living in a Fools Paradise and as fans we have to suck up the realities of the situation and accept it.
I'm lucky - I could afford to go and in fact one week later than this fixture I have been planning my 50th birthday trip to the US to take in an NFL game in all its glory and US 'razzmatazz' ...I considered for a short while altering my plans to go to this game instead...but I wasn't consulted, it wont be KP with my sons and best mate, it will not be a UK rugby atmosphere and to me those are the values of watching the Falcons. The Club feels its looking after its own interests and so perhaps I don't need to feel guilty or treacherous for looking after my own.
SK has been our saviour, but if its time for him to start reclaiming losses due to true support in the North East being insufficient to sustain a Premiership team - then perhaps we have all been living in a Fools Paradise and as fans we have to suck up the realities of the situation and accept it.
I'm lucky - I could afford to go and in fact one week later than this fixture I have been planning my 50th birthday trip to the US to take in an NFL game in all its glory and US 'razzmatazz' ...I considered for a short while altering my plans to go to this game instead...but I wasn't consulted, it wont be KP with my sons and best mate, it will not be a UK rugby atmosphere and to me those are the values of watching the Falcons. The Club feels its looking after its own interests and so perhaps I don't need to feel guilty or treacherous for looking after my own.
Absolutely ridiculous that its a Falcons home game. This Would have been the biggest home crowd of the season, especially if it's on the back of a winning Lions tour with Farrell, Vunipolas etc,& they keep saying they are trying to grow the game up here? Why is this not a Sarries home game? They are used to pantomime games in the US as well as at Wembley etc. I heard that the club stand to make 2/3 times a much financially as a home game- so what when you lose the goodwill of thousands of loyal folk?!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 18/05/2017 01:45 by muzzdobetter.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 18/05/2017 01:45 by muzzdobetter.
I'd be keen to see whether London Irish and their fans would agree on that one[quote]
I'd like to think the two situations are slightly different. London Irish played Sarries towards the end of the season when they we're near enough relegated. We're playing Sarries at the beginning of the season.
Anyway, I don't support the idea. I just think that we might need to get used to the idea that this might be the direction things will take, and whether we like it or not, money (TV money) has a lot to do with it.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 18/05/2017 03:00 by lizard118.
I'd like to think the two situations are slightly different. London Irish played Sarries towards the end of the season when they we're near enough relegated. We're playing Sarries at the beginning of the season.
Anyway, I don't support the idea. I just think that we might need to get used to the idea that this might be the direction things will take, and whether we like it or not, money (TV money) has a lot to do with it.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 18/05/2017 03:00 by lizard118.
If it meant regular revenue for the club that meant it wouldn't be running at a loss I'd happily see us play one game a year in the U.S.
Quote:Bedlington Lad
https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2017/may/17/saracens-newcastle-philadelphia-premiership-rugby
From the Guardian site - interesting read I thought
So to paraphrase the article - they want Saracens and whoever else tags along for the ride. More interesting is one of the comments which outlines all the competing fixtures that weekend in the area, which will attract the sports fans and the problems that the union teams have had in attracting fans to the "burbs" to watch the rugby. They could always shift the london double header there ....
I think it's going to divide opinion on this and the argument for and against can go round and round forever.Yes it is probably the biggest game of season but I feel you got to look at the big picture it does get us in limelight it's first time for a long time I have seen the falcons the main headline on rugby sky sports app.
It's so easy for people to have a dig but prior to this we were all singing the praises of the management and the owner so it may be for a financial reason but Semore can't help us out forever we are going into next season with probably our ever strongest squad so let's just back the decision the board have made if it's for the benefit of the club
It's so easy for people to have a dig but prior to this we were all singing the praises of the management and the owner so it may be for a financial reason but Semore can't help us out forever we are going into next season with probably our ever strongest squad so let's just back the decision the board have made if it's for the benefit of the club
Quote:Trebor1892Quote:lizard118
I understand some people are disappointed but I think this can have a mutually beneficial effect.
I understand it's one game less for some season ticket holders, but Iets not forget that most of the money in most sports is in generated by Tv. And rugby fans have to accept that this is the way things are going. NFL do it successfully in London and other European countries. Obviously these games generate money for the game and publicise the sport.
I would like to think there is a mutual benefit in the end, otherwise the club wouldn't do it.
I'd be keen to see whether London Irish and their fans would agree on that one
London Irish fan here. I didn't make it to New York last year but I know plenty who did and said it was a fantastic experience. In terms of what the club lost or gained by the trip, in playing terms I don't think it had any real material effect. We got relegated because we failed to beat you and Worcester at your places. Commercially I have no idea whether we've seen an increase in merchandise sales in the US I'm afraid, but from a personal point of view I'd be happy enough if it was us again next year and would do everything I could to get myself out there to watch the game.
Quote:.Mick Hogan
Folks
Understand some of the frustrations and hopefully can clear a few comments up that have been raised.
Compensation will either be money back, credits to other games, additional tickets or a ticket to the game in the US if you are able to go. Its your choice which one you have and full details very soon
This opportunity has come around very quickly. We did not know that this was a possibility back in February when STs went on sale. If so we would have sold 16 matches not 17.
The commercial return for the club is VERY favourable. Whether we like it or not the success of a Premiership Rugby club is based on revenues generated. We are
still a loss-making club (over £2m last year) and rely on our owner's generosity every year to continue. If we can off-set that loss in other ways then we have to consider them.
It is great for the club to be considered for this event. The US is a big opportunity for the Premiership. Already NBC pay good money to cover it. By playing games there we show support for the US market and it will lead to increased revenues.
The club always puts its ST members first. We distributed more RWC tickets to matches than any club bar one other. We continue to offer more England International tickets to ST members than ANY club in the country. We have offered free tickets to Premiership Sevens for a number of years for ST members. No one will lose money with this game being moved and refunds on a pro-rata basis will be offered if that's what members want.
Happy to take individual comments via email as usual on mick.hogan@newcastle-falcons.co.uk
Regards
Mick Hogan
Managing Director
Good to be reminded of the hard reality of the business side of our hobby. At the last Fans Forum I asked SK how far the club is from breaking even. He said that the Falcons could break even very soon, but only at the risk of limiting investment in the team and KP facilities. He isn't prepared to put balancing the books ahead of progress on the pitch. Switching one game to the US isn't a major thing if it eases a bit of the burden on SK's wallet. I for one will feel adequately compensated if the club puts on a bit if a do in the 1877 bar with a humungeous screen, nosh etc. Oh. Forgot about the time difference. Might this be possible?
My guess is that one game per season from now on will be played over there. In order to market it they need the likes of Saracens to be one of the teams involved. The 'privilege' of being the other team will probably be shared around a bit.
If this takes off, the Premiership might be able to sell TV rights to the US. That would be HUGE and could make clubs like ours a lot closer to being financially self-sufficient.
Also, Mick has clearly stated that this game will be VERY financially rewarding for us. If it wasn't for Semore's investment we wouldn't have a Falcons team to support, so if this opportunity lightens his load financially then I guess we need to accept that.
Obviously the timing of announcements is unfortunate (to say the least) but I'm sure that the club couldn't say anything previously. Sounds like they are working through the options for rewarding the season ticket holders.
Final thought, maybe the club should do a season ticket holder only VIP screening of the match at KP. Some free food, drinks, large screens, live band afterwards?
Edit - Dick G posted much of the same thoughts above, but he obviously types quicker than me!!
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 18/05/2017 09:16 by London_Falcon.
If this takes off, the Premiership might be able to sell TV rights to the US. That would be HUGE and could make clubs like ours a lot closer to being financially self-sufficient.
Also, Mick has clearly stated that this game will be VERY financially rewarding for us. If it wasn't for Semore's investment we wouldn't have a Falcons team to support, so if this opportunity lightens his load financially then I guess we need to accept that.
Obviously the timing of announcements is unfortunate (to say the least) but I'm sure that the club couldn't say anything previously. Sounds like they are working through the options for rewarding the season ticket holders.
Final thought, maybe the club should do a season ticket holder only VIP screening of the match at KP. Some free food, drinks, large screens, live band afterwards?
Edit - Dick G posted much of the same thoughts above, but he obviously types quicker than me!!
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 18/05/2017 09:16 by London_Falcon.
In peace. ..
All the comments about why it's not a Saracens home game...
We already have to suffer the dire trek to Twickenham for the double header (mostly as home team as Quins have a get out claus)....and a home game at Wembley which isn't much fun either.
I understand it's a PR idea to have a game in the US every season so I'm sure our time as home team will come. ..BUT why have we got to go for 2 seasons in a row as away team... 2 games a lot of us would have gone to.
I understand your frustration and will feel the same when we are the home team. ..
SUPPORT Help for Heroes:
Help for Heroes
All the comments about why it's not a Saracens home game...
We already have to suffer the dire trek to Twickenham for the double header (mostly as home team as Quins have a get out claus)....and a home game at Wembley which isn't much fun either.
I understand it's a PR idea to have a game in the US every season so I'm sure our time as home team will come. ..BUT why have we got to go for 2 seasons in a row as away team... 2 games a lot of us would have gone to.
I understand your frustration and will feel the same when we are the home team. ..
SUPPORT Help for Heroes:
Help for Heroes
So many of the stupid bloody things I have to put up with as a fan to see the Falcons play @#$%& me off royally, like being told I have to pay for a glass to have a pint which isn't bloody optional(on top of the already expensive pints), whenever I buy a pint on card the card machine is either lost, broken or has ran out of paper and i have to walk to the South stand to pay for it, making me walk to the other door of the stadium so I can get in and use the same stands bar, toilets and food stalls. But now taking away the biggest game of the season, who the hell thinks of this @#$%& though really, so many anti consumer ideas.
Guess this is a direct result of the professional age. Falcons management do try and connect with the clubs supporters and that should be applauded and thanked. (No other board has regular contributions from their club like we do.) Therefore I would think that the decision was not taken lightly. However the overall beneficiary looks as if it will be Sarries -Repeated exposure is more likely to favour them with sponsorship deals e.t.c. Possibly allowing them to strengthen their team even more, or reduce the massive debt hanging over them.
Who wants to visit Trumpville anyway -I dont.
This news however will mean I will have to revisit my autumn holiday plans, damn!
Who wants to visit Trumpville anyway -I dont.
This news however will mean I will have to revisit my autumn holiday plans, damn!
I'd be interested to know where the 3 home games revenue amount mentioned comes from. I'm guessing that would be about 1/2 million which pays Flood' s 2 years of salary.
I do think the club has been a bit disingenuous as they did categorically state (was it Mick or someone else?) there was no truth to the rumour when it was first mooted months ago. I think perhaps not commenting might have been a better course, as it appears the rumour was well founded - even confirming the correct opposition.
I do think the club has been a bit disingenuous as they did categorically state (was it Mick or someone else?) there was no truth to the rumour when it was first mooted months ago. I think perhaps not commenting might have been a better course, as it appears the rumour was well founded - even confirming the correct opposition.
Impossible trying to keep everybody happy it seems.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 18/05/2017 11:30 by Wensleydale Falcon.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 18/05/2017 11:30 by Wensleydale Falcon.
Quote:Kwa444
I do think the club has been a bit disingenuous as they did categorically state (was it Mick or someone else?) there was no truth to the rumour when it was first mooted months ago...
That was last season & the offer being made was not acceptable to the club so they declined it, hence London Irish went over the pond. I can only assume that this year they have come back with an offer that the club was happy to accept on our behalf.
WELL I'm not very happy about the Falcons management they must knew before the season tickets were up for sale but what has got me they did not have the balls to tell the supports at the big bash which I was there to tell us about playing in USA but at this moment I would like to put my HORN we are in the north east not Down south we're money rules 😡😡😡😡🏉🏉🇬🇧™
I feel that some posters are going a bit far when they say they would not have renewed their season ticket knowing 1 game would be in the US. Many of us choose to miss games through a season due to holidays, work or any number of reasons, however, this is not a supporters choice to move this game and hence as its the club decision many are justifiably upset.
It may well (i feel) be the fact that where all of our upset lies is that we were not consulted in the least about this plan? Had this been muted at one of the talk-ins or suppy club chats then we could have discussed a compensation idea at that point, that this decision has come out of the blue is what i have found most shocking.
I do agree with the commercial considerations, and if this game means that next summer we get new high quality players and we dont lose £2m for another year, then i am all for it. If we get a big american sponsor then again I am all for it, if Under Armour make our kit on the back of us playing in the US I am all for it.
What Mick and Co should learn from this is that communication is key, we all have attended talk ins and the like and feel very close to the club and there was none regarding this and thats why we then can see the knee jerks reactions above.
Credit to the club for their work to bring the supporters closer to the club, sadly this episode will sour those now.
It may well (i feel) be the fact that where all of our upset lies is that we were not consulted in the least about this plan? Had this been muted at one of the talk-ins or suppy club chats then we could have discussed a compensation idea at that point, that this decision has come out of the blue is what i have found most shocking.
I do agree with the commercial considerations, and if this game means that next summer we get new high quality players and we dont lose £2m for another year, then i am all for it. If we get a big american sponsor then again I am all for it, if Under Armour make our kit on the back of us playing in the US I am all for it.
What Mick and Co should learn from this is that communication is key, we all have attended talk ins and the like and feel very close to the club and there was none regarding this and thats why we then can see the knee jerks reactions above.
Credit to the club for their work to bring the supporters closer to the club, sadly this episode will sour those now.
Ex-hooker , no idea kick off time but I'd guess somewhere between 6&10pm our time so would be good if the club could do something at KP , maybe a little bit of a festival - game on the Giant screen etc could work well - Season ticket holders entry to that and bring a mate to another game perhaps?
I haven't bought my season ticket yet but will be after our holiday happily with the above or something similar , or assume there'll be a price reduction going forward.
The club couldn't have held off selling season tickets even if there was a chance that this would go ahead. To be fair to Mick most MD's wouldn't take the time to post on a public forum and offer to handled direct emails too, others would have generic web announcements or poor ticketing staff fielding the complaints.
It's not great at all but seems to be good for the club.
I haven't bought my season ticket yet but will be after our holiday happily with the above or something similar , or assume there'll be a price reduction going forward.
The club couldn't have held off selling season tickets even if there was a chance that this would go ahead. To be fair to Mick most MD's wouldn't take the time to post on a public forum and offer to handled direct emails too, others would have generic web announcements or poor ticketing staff fielding the complaints.
It's not great at all but seems to be good for the club.
Taken time to reflect and if this 1game has paid for Toby Flood then it's well worth it in my opinion. Tho after reading the guardian paper we are the OTHER team. So I would be interested in the detail of the deal.
Mick has taken the time and effort to put an informed response and for that I thank him. Deano with the support of SK has potential built one hell of a team for next season and I hope we give sarries the game of their lives in the US. Let's as supporters accept what's happening and push forward
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 18/05/2017 12:58 by Falcons_Thunder.
Mick has taken the time and effort to put an informed response and for that I thank him. Deano with the support of SK has potential built one hell of a team for next season and I hope we give sarries the game of their lives in the US. Let's as supporters accept what's happening and push forward
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 18/05/2017 12:58 by Falcons_Thunder.
As I said earlier on, Mick and the team have possibly exhausted all avenues with regard to extra revenue and there is only so much a club can do unless a sudden windfall comes their way. Even some of the games that have been close to sell outs probably haven't generated as much due to offers like discounted tickets for mates, food etc.
Okay crowds are on the up but if we are being honest we like a lot of other teams (Sarries included) have a relatively poor support numbers wise, so our owner's generosity is keeping us afloat. Therefore something like this looks really appealing, although not necessarily to us as fans.
I do think it is a shame that fans will miss out on the chance to see Sarries and am rather sceptical if anyone across the pond knows who we are but if the club benefits from a significant unforeseen injection of funds then it has to be to our long term benefit, painful though it is in the short term.
Okay crowds are on the up but if we are being honest we like a lot of other teams (Sarries included) have a relatively poor support numbers wise, so our owner's generosity is keeping us afloat. Therefore something like this looks really appealing, although not necessarily to us as fans.
I do think it is a shame that fans will miss out on the chance to see Sarries and am rather sceptical if anyone across the pond knows who we are but if the club benefits from a significant unforeseen injection of funds then it has to be to our long term benefit, painful though it is in the short term.
Quote:nook10
Great business by the falcons,even better if they offer us season ticket holders something special on the day.
Like free entry to a local National League club game where you can see what a real rugby club is like before it sells out to the money men?
Quote:JimJam350Quote:nook10
Great business by the falcons,even better if they offer us season ticket holders something special on the day.
Like free entry to a local National League club game where you can see what a real rugby club is like before it sells out to the money men?
I occasionally go to Blaydon and Tynedale. No comparison in terms of action on the field and atmosphere off it. If this is what "a real rugby club is like", I will stick to the unreality of the South Stand watching high-end rugby.
There seems to be confused mixed messages coming out of the club. Either we're close to breaking even or losing £2M per year. Which ever it is perhaps depends on the view that's most needed to be used at the time of discussion? Regardless, shifting the plumb game of the season 3000 miles away from KP to only double or maybe triple the individual match day revenue return seems to me to be poorly negotiated and grossly underselling the "product" set against the illwill created. As season ticket holders, Disappointed though I was, this was nothing compared the distraught look on my 11 year old's face when he realised he'd not get to see the Sarries galaticos next season, some freshly returned from Lions duty. I don't think telling him it's not so bad as Dad will be getting a £18 part refund for the tickets is going to cheer him up...
Jimmy's comment above sums it up for me. This for me is the equivalent of Paying for the quality street and opening them on Christmas Day to discover the purple ones have been removed from the box.
I buy my season ticket and car park pass to watch 11 premiership games. Cup and European games are reserve team games which the club use to make up quotas and give fringe players a run out so this is not a case of one of 17 games, it's one of 11 and the blue riband at that.
Mick telling us we get access to international tickets etc means we should be grateful customers tells me the club really don't get the strength of feeling on this one.
Please don't insult is with anything less than an 8% refund and priority access to 2018 champions cup tickets and don't even consider beer vouchers, tickets for friends or any vouchers to spend in the club
I buy my season ticket and car park pass to watch 11 premiership games. Cup and European games are reserve team games which the club use to make up quotas and give fringe players a run out so this is not a case of one of 17 games, it's one of 11 and the blue riband at that.
Mick telling us we get access to international tickets etc means we should be grateful customers tells me the club really don't get the strength of feeling on this one.
Please don't insult is with anything less than an 8% refund and priority access to 2018 champions cup tickets and don't even consider beer vouchers, tickets for friends or any vouchers to spend in the club
Monkey - I beg to differ. The Newcastle/Sarries game was on a thread on here about 6 months ago and a club employee (Smithy) 'poo poo'd' it as all rumour with no tangible substance in that thread.
The thing is though - the bad sentiment about such a course of action was quite apparent even then. So it seems it was feasible to believe that the club made the decision in this knowledge.
I was also amused by the guardian report with the attempt to try and explain why Falcons are a good choice! There are some lame answers around at the moment with so many politicians on the march but that beat the best of them .... which is impressive in itself!
I have commented on the said article mentioned so it now appears up the thread order.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 18/05/2017 21:05 by Kwa444.
The thing is though - the bad sentiment about such a course of action was quite apparent even then. So it seems it was feasible to believe that the club made the decision in this knowledge.
I was also amused by the guardian report with the attempt to try and explain why Falcons are a good choice! There are some lame answers around at the moment with so many politicians on the march but that beat the best of them .... which is impressive in itself!
I have commented on the said article mentioned so it now appears up the thread order.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 18/05/2017 21:05 by Kwa444.
Quote:slimjimmy
There seems to be confused mixed messages coming out of the club. Either we're close to breaking even or losing £2M per year. Which ever it is perhaps depends on the view that's most needed to be used at the time of discussion? Regardless, shifting the plumb game of the season 3000 miles away from KP to only double or maybe triple the individual match day revenue return seems to me to be poorly negotiated and grossly underselling the "product" set against the illwill created. As season ticket holders, Disappointed though I was, this was nothing compared the distraught look on my 11 year old's face when he realised he'd not get to see the Sarries galaticos next season, some freshly returned from Lions duty. I don't think telling him it's not so bad as Dad will be getting a £18 part refund for the tickets is going to cheer him up...
Well Slim, in years to come you will be grateful for what has happened - your 11 year old son will grow up a much more balanced child realising they can't always have everything they want and compromises have to be made. Indeed this may make the difference between having a club to support when he grows older.
If it was only suggested a few weeks ago as Smithy posted this means all next seasons signings weren't affected by this so hopefully might strengthen even more or increase the pot for strengthening during the season if need be or for next.
I understand the frustration from some fans but surely if it helps the club I don't see why it shouldn't be tried. I think a lot of things were weighed up.
Can we move on now. It's creating a negative vibe. No one has been killed...
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 19/05/2017 09:44 by lizard118.
Can we move on now. It's creating a negative vibe. No one has been killed...
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 19/05/2017 09:44 by lizard118.
Re: Falcons to play league game in USA/Season ticket holders to lose a home game....
alnwickfalcon
(IP Logged)
19 May, 2017 12:39
As a lot of others have said I am quite annoyed at seeing a home fixture moved to the US after the season ticket renewals have been done.
This is the second year in a row that the Falcons have promised something and then taken it away.
Last year it was a dedicated Season Ticket holders bar and now a fixture. I appreciate the club is trying to expand the game and it's commercial reach but why at the expense of fans who pay season tickets and travel throughout the country to support our lads.
I don't want more discounts on merchandise or a beer/ meal voucher. I would like to see our squad play against the back to back European and possibly Aviva Premiership Champions in front of a packed Kingston Park.
This is the second year in a row that the Falcons have promised something and then taken it away.
Last year it was a dedicated Season Ticket holders bar and now a fixture. I appreciate the club is trying to expand the game and it's commercial reach but why at the expense of fans who pay season tickets and travel throughout the country to support our lads.
I don't want more discounts on merchandise or a beer/ meal voucher. I would like to see our squad play against the back to back European and possibly Aviva Premiership Champions in front of a packed Kingston Park.
Quote:slimjimmy
There seems to be confused mixed messages coming out of the club. Either we're close to breaking even or losing £2M per year. Which ever it is perhaps depends on the view that's most needed to be used at the time of discussion? Regardless, shifting the plumb game of the season 3000 miles away from KP to only double or maybe triple the individual match day revenue return seems to me to be poorly negotiated and grossly underselling the "product" set against the illwill created. As season ticket holders, Disappointed though I was, this was nothing compared the distraught look on my 11 year old's face when he realised he'd not get to see the Sarries galaticos next season, some freshly returned from Lions duty. I don't think telling him it's not so bad as Dad will be getting a £18 part refund for the tickets is going
to cheer him up...
This is exactly how my 10 year old son felt. "So I won't be able to get a photo with the England played from Sarries then Dad". - you have hit the nail on the head.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 19/05/2017 14:10 by Kath....
Quote:dick gQuote:JimJam350Quote:nook10
Great business by the falcons,even better if they offer us season ticket holders something special on the day.
Like free entry to a local National League club game where you can see what a real rugby club is like before it sells out to the money men?
I occasionally go to Blaydon and Tynedale. No comparison in terms of action on the field and atmosphere off it. If this is what "a real rugby club is like", I will stick to the unreality of the South Stand watching high-end rugby.
That's the South Stand in Philadelphia presumably.
Who made the decision to move the game? I would have thought this came down from from a higher level and I doubt there was really that much discussion. Losing a home game versus far wider global exposure can only be a good thing.
I understand the annoyance of losing a home game you would attend at KP but surely the economics of this is small change compared to the potential upsides.
I understand the annoyance of losing a home game you would attend at KP but surely the economics of this is small change compared to the potential upsides.
Quote:Daveyb
Losing a home game versus far wider global exposure can only be a good thing.
Perhaps, but if that's true then why aren't Saracens the home team? Or why aren't they playing Leicester, Bath or Wasps over there?
I'm sure the organisers would have happily paid Saracens or Leicester more than they're paying us, had they needed to, and they'd far rather have Wasps or Leicester taking on Sarries in this showpiece game than us.
Not so Leipy. They will fully expect Saracens to win and win handsomely. This is a big financial fish for us and who can blame the club for accepting. It is personal loss v club gain and in the bigger picture, which is more valuable and to who. It is obvious many fans do not understand the pressures of running a large organisation on the gate receipts we generate
Quote:Daveyb
Not so Leipy. They will fully expect Saracens to win and win handsomely. This is a big financial fish for us and who can blame the club for accepting. It is personal loss v club gain and in the bigger picture, which is more valuable and to who. It is obvious many fans do not understand the pressures of running a large organisation on the gate receipts we generate
I'm with you there Davey. We just can't expect Semore to be pumping money into it when KP is never full. Obviously can't even compete with the Worcesters of this world financially, hence why we have to take any good opportunity to put money in the coffers. I'm for it if it helps the club in the medium term.
Much rather lose one home game, for the greater good.
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