Northampton Saints
News: Saints to hold HC pool fixture at stadium mk:
By COYSDC
September 30 2011
Northampton Saints today announced that January’s Heineken Cup match against Munster will be played at stadiumMK in Milton Keynes. stadiumMK hosted the Saints twice last season on the road to the Heineken Cup final, with both the quarter final against Ulster and the semi-final against Perpignan being played at the 21,500-capacity arena.
Saints Nation marching on Milton Keynes for Munster match
This is the first time that the Saints has moved a regular season match to another stadium and a considerable amount of work has been done to ensure that there is as smooth a transition as possible and that lessons learned from last season’s matches have been put into practice.
The finalised date for the match has still to be confirmed by ERC, organisers of the Heineken Cup, and the relevant TV companies. However the match will be played during the weekend of January 20/21/22 and the Saints management will be strongly requesting for a Saturday kick-off.
The switch to stadiumMK has been made to give as many Saints supporters as possible the opportunity to cheer their team on against one of Europe’s biggest Heineken Cup outfits. And like April’s game against Ulster, every effort will be made to replicate as much as possible the fantastic atmosphere that has made Franklin’s Gardens renowned across the globe, including a Village area at the stadiumMK complex.
The club has put in place a number of safeguards to counter the renowned ingenuity of the Munster fans that was so evident when the teams last met in the pool stages of the 2008/09 tournament, and Saints chief executive Allan Robson said that it was vital that every Saints supporter played their part in making sure that stadiumMK is packed with black, green and gold for January’s match.
“It will be a massive match in January and we want to give as many Saints supporters as possible the opportunity to cheer their team on against one of Europe’s best,” he commented. “We had two memorable days in Milton Keynes last season. But we also learned plenty of lessons and have gone to great lengths to make sure that we have got it right this time.
“We have made a point of replicating as closely as possible our seating plan into stadiumMK so that Season Ticket Holders are in the same place as they are at Franklin’s Gardens. And we have also made sure that Season Ticket Holders on the terrace are at the front of the stands along the sides of the pitch so they are as close to the action as they are normally.
“The most important thing is that we pack out stadiumMK with Saints supporters. We all remember how determined Munster fans were three years ago to get into Franklin’s Gardens, and we will need our Season Ticket Holders’ help to make sure there is as much black, green and gold in the stands as possible.
“Our tournament obligations to the away team, ERC and their sponsors mean that only a few extra Saints supporters would have been able to get into Franklin’s Gardens. But with over 18 thousand seats available to us at stadiumMK we are able to accommodate plenty of extra Saints fans, including groups and junior clubs who may not otherwise have been able to come to the match.
“It is interesting to note that Castres have also moved their home game against Munster. But while they are going to Toulouse – nearly two hours’ drive away – we are able to move to a great stadium that is just a few miles down the M1.
“Last week’s announcement about the stadium expansion showed that we are committed to continued multi-million pound investment into Franklin’s Gardens. But following the template set out by the recent report by Deloitte into European club rugby we are able to move to a bigger stadium when need be, and we believe that it is a good option on this occasion.”
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR SUPPORTERS
SEATING FOR SEASON TICKET HOLDERS
The Saints’ seating map has been translated to stadiumMK, and all Season Ticket Holders have been allocated a seat that is a direct equivalent to their normal place at Franklin’s Gardens. Season Ticket Holders who have aisle seats have been allocated aisle seats, and the allocated seat at stadiumMK will be at a similar height from the pitch as at Franklin’s Gardens.
Season Ticket Holders on the Gordon Terrace have been allocated seats in the front few rows of the East and West Stands of stadiumMK (side viewing), while the Shrubbery Terrace has been allocated an area in a corner, in the same position as their normal location at Franklin’s Gardens. Season Ticket Holders who are linked to other supporters via Friends and Family groups have been allocated their seats in these areas together.
A map of stadiumMK showing the equivalent areas to Franklin’s Gardens can be downloaded by clicking here.
Tickets will automatically be despatched to Season Ticket Holders no later than Friday, November 4th. Season Ticket Holders do not have to do anything else, unless they wish to book additional tickets.
ADDITIONAL SEATS FOR SEASON TICKET HOLDERS, ASSOCIATE MEMBERS AND REGISTERED SUPPORTERS
To help ensure that stadiumMK is packed to the rafters with Saints supporters, the club has given Season Ticket Holders the ability to order an unlimited number of additional seats to bring friends, family, acquaintances and work colleagues to the match until the close of business on Saturday, October 29th.
Season Ticket Holders can order additional tickets now via online ticketing accounts or directly from the Saints Ticket Office.
As with a normal match at Franklin’s Gardens, additional tickets will be allocated in areas not reserved for Season Ticket Holders. Nevertheless, if Season Ticket Holders wish to move to sit with their extra bookings they can do so – just get in touch with the Saints Ticket Office by emailing ticketoffice@northamptonsaints.co.uk and a member of the customer service team will be on hand to help fulfil your request.
Associate Members and Registered Supporters can also order an unlimited number of tickets via their online ticketing accounts or directly from the Saints Ticket Office. This priority booking period also ends at the close of business on Saturday, October 29th.
Supporters who wish to purchase a membership can do so from the Saints Ticket Office. It should be noted that Northampton Saints reserves the right of discretion as to who is allowed to become an Associate Member or Registered Supporter.
Additional tickets booked by Saints members will be despatched no later than Friday, November 4th.
Any remaining tickets left at the end of the priority booking period will go on wider sale on Tuesday, November 1st. Supporters who have ordered tickets from the club before will be invited by email to book their place at stadiumMK – all of the information as to how this will be done will be included in this email.
GROUP BOOKINGS
Groups of supporters were vital in creating the superb atmosphere at stadiumMK in April, and bookings of 20 tickets or more are now being taken by the Saints. It does not matter whether you are a Saints member or not – if you are from the Northampton and Milton Keynes area and can get a group together we are ready to hear from you!
So whether you are from a junior rugby club, social group, local company, charity or school, email Dionne Jelley – dionnejelley@northamptonsaints.co.uk – or call 01604 599116.
CAR PARKING AND TRANSPORT TO STADIUMMK
Supporters who have season car park passes at Franklin’s Gardens will automatically be allocated a place in the stadiumMK car parks.
News regarding any additional car parking places will be announced closer to the match.
As with last season’s matches, the Saints and the SSC will be organising coach travel for supporters
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Discussion started by ComeOnYouSaints.com , 30/09/2011 07:54
ComeOnYouSaints.com
30/09/2011 07:54
30/09/2011 07:54
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We had this embargoed but the local press once again ignored the club's request, so we are posting it 6hrs early.
David L
What if there were no hypothetical questions?
- Live wrong and preposterously
David L
What if there were no hypothetical questions?
- Live wrong and preposterously
Just read the announcement on Twitter.
Actual day and time still to be confirmed.
Saints requesting a Saturday game.
Tickets for STH's to be posted automatically.
Actual day and time still to be confirmed.
Saints requesting a Saturday game.
Tickets for STH's to be posted automatically.
Just looked at the Twitter address again It is @rugby_saints. Only 629 followers and different from Saints Offical site.
Quote:The Saints very own Twitter.
Yeah, but it's not.
It's the local rag trying to steal a march on a story, piggy-backing the Offy twitter feed...
Right, now go on to the Offy via the home page rather than the twitter feed and try and find the story...
CLICKY!
You won't find it.
That's because the Offy wants this story to be published first thing Friday morning. We respect that; absolutely.
COYSDC has the article primed and ready to go but it appears that some pilchard has jumped the gun.
Not happy.
CLICKY!
You won't find it.
That's because the Offy wants this story to be published first thing Friday morning. We respect that; absolutely.
COYSDC has the article primed and ready to go but it appears that some pilchard has jumped the gun.
Not happy.
If this is true and will know shortly I am not best pleased.
I have a car park ticket for the Saints...will this be honoured?
If not in the car I will be on the train I can usually do the return trip to Northampton for £27.50.
Not so MK
Certainly questioning the ST like others.
Why bother building a stadium with a small increase If in a group game we are moving any way.
I have a car park ticket for the Saints...will this be honoured?
If not in the car I will be on the train I can usually do the return trip to Northampton for £27.50.
Not so MK
Certainly questioning the ST like others.
Why bother building a stadium with a small increase If in a group game we are moving any way.
It's not just "any old" group game - it's Munster"
If we can fill Stadium mk: it will all help to pay for the "small increase" where we will doubtless host the rest of the HC pool matches.
The subject os car parking tickets was raised at the AGM and this was to be addressed.
David L
What if there were no hypothetical questions?
- Live wrong and preposterously
If we can fill Stadium mk: it will all help to pay for the "small increase" where we will doubtless host the rest of the HC pool matches.
The subject os car parking tickets was raised at the AGM and this was to be addressed.
David L
What if there were no hypothetical questions?
- Live wrong and preposterously
Great news this. Love takin big groups 2 games, and this means I can take a bus full!
Come on u Saints!
Come on u Saints!
The rumour was doing the rounds yesterday well before the Chron was claiming it had a 'big Saints exclusive' on Friday, that just confirmed it.
Oh and as suggested last week in another thread doesn't this make the look how NBC are damaging the N'ton economy argument appear rather stupid and somewhat two faced? A real kick in the teeth for the local traders the club claimed they were supporting a few weeks back. Well welcome to the world of I'm all right jack big business.
That switch probably means we now can't go to the game because of other commitments out of town Saturday night. A propper home game i could have made. Not happy
Gordon Terrace C Block
Gordon Terrace C Block
I'd be surprised if a big chunk of last years record profits didn't come from mk ticket sales. We need the extra cash to finance the stand upgrade, plus the place will be rocking IF we can fill it.
Come On You Saints
Come On You Saints
I presume saints wiill be paying my transport from jimmies end to milton keynes?
No? Thought not.
I look forward to another flat atmosphere - sitting - too far away from the pitch too see.
Not even remotely impressed.
No? Thought not.
I look forward to another flat atmosphere - sitting - too far away from the pitch too see.
Not even remotely impressed.
Could be worse, you could be moving a game to Cape Town!
Was it only last week, that Digger did a video interview posted on this site, saying how it was good to play at MK but that the side would have preferred to have played the Ulster game at home because FG is so special.. blah blah blah. Why not go the whole hog and hire Wembley, Tinie Tempah and that dance troupe, Diversity?
We don't have to move the game, yet the marketing department have chosen to without the thought of some people who will now be unable to attend.
As Chris has said, there really is no sense in Munster folk coming and staying at Northampton. How many will now book to stay, eat and spend their money in MK?
We may as well not bother to expand FG and just come and play here when the marketing men think it's best to.
We don't have to move the game, yet the marketing department have chosen to without the thought of some people who will now be unable to attend.
As Chris has said, there really is no sense in Munster folk coming and staying at Northampton. How many will now book to stay, eat and spend their money in MK?
We may as well not bother to expand FG and just come and play here when the marketing men think it's best to.
And lets not be under the impression that its a one off and when the Gardens is expanded it will not happen again, it will.
Hmmm.
I can see the (financial) attraction of moving the game, but I seem to recall the previous game against Munster having absolutely the best atmosphere I can remember at the Gardens. Can we replicate that in MK?
It's all very well getting more people in, but are they going to be the sort of people who will significantly boost the atmosphere? And home many of the extras will be Munster fans?
I can see the (financial) attraction of moving the game, but I seem to recall the previous game against Munster having absolutely the best atmosphere I can remember at the Gardens. Can we replicate that in MK?
It's all very well getting more people in, but are they going to be the sort of people who will significantly boost the atmosphere? And home many of the extras will be Munster fans?
We are never going to sell (at the moment) 22,000 tickets every week and MK stadium will be over 30,000 by the time we are at 15,000. That is an awful lot of money that can be had for the big games. Remember when Some of the other teams take games to big stadiums they sell at low prices to fill it. Here we will have an additional 9,000 at an average of say £30 which is a good earner.
Am I disappointed - yes. Am I surprised no. It is a pragmatic approach by the club.
“Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one.”
Benjamin Franklin
Tetleys Block F E143
Am I disappointed - yes. Am I surprised no. It is a pragmatic approach by the club.
“Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one.”
Benjamin Franklin
Tetleys Block F E143
I thought we were above this as a club. MK for knock stages is fine by me but thousands of us have season tickets to watch rugby at Franklin's Gardens. Is there small print saying venues can be changed at the drop of a hat. This is seriously inconveneicing me and my family. I wonder if the same brain behind this also came up with 'the greatest saints event ever' my complimentary seat cushion and seat plaque, the tiles on the floor etc. 20 000 saints supporters will not go to this game you have just turned it into a Munster home match!
No alcohol for January. I'm a dryathlete in aid of cancer research.
Dryathlon
No alcohol for January. I'm a dryathlete in aid of cancer research.
Dryathlon
To rehash a phrase used here often in the past "It's about the rugby money stupid!"
Yeah well said Rich - for me its not just the 80 minutes on the field its the pre match banter with my mates in teh pub before and after the game - now we have the hassle of having to get down to MK and back again - totally p***d off with Northampton Saints. Money, money and bl**y money at our expense. WIll probably flog my ticket as soon as I get it.
Someone called Padraig will probably by it.
No alcohol for January. I'm a dryathlete in aid of cancer research.
Dryathlon
No alcohol for January. I'm a dryathlete in aid of cancer research.
Dryathlon
I we get tickets automatically I doubt that I will be sitting right behind brother Tim as I usually do.
You can bet your life that it will not be a 3.00pm saturday KO and so travelling will be made all the more difficult.
You can bet your life that it will not be a 3.00pm saturday KO and so travelling will be made all the more difficult.
But - some teams ( Leicester for example ) do actually keep the game in the same town which is a big help..
The cynic in me says this kind of thing is why the announced FG expansion is smaller than originally mooted. Why expand when it's easier/more lucrative to shift games elsewhere?
I'm very disappointed by this news, and sorely tempted to get a refund on my season ticket for this game (and any other non-essential moves - AP vs Tigers, for instance?). I'm sure moving the game would constitute a variation of terms and such a boycott of the non-enforced move of the game is the only real way of making my disappointment count for anything. Were the supporters even consulted?
I guess what we need is for Sarries to do the decent thing forget about rebasing to Barnet but rebase to MK instead. Before we do?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2011:09:30:13:01:31 by Matthew.
I'm very disappointed by this news, and sorely tempted to get a refund on my season ticket for this game (and any other non-essential moves - AP vs Tigers, for instance?). I'm sure moving the game would constitute a variation of terms and such a boycott of the non-enforced move of the game is the only real way of making my disappointment count for anything. Were the supporters even consulted?
I guess what we need is for Sarries to do the decent thing forget about rebasing to Barnet but rebase to MK instead. Before we do?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2011:09:30:13:01:31 by Matthew.
also how do they allocate the tickets to us on the terrace. I'd like to be surrounded by friends as per usual. They still haven't grasped that those of us who stand do not do this for financial reasons, we do it because it's WHAT WE WANT
No alcohol for January. I'm a dryathlete in aid of cancer research.
Dryathlon
No alcohol for January. I'm a dryathlete in aid of cancer research.
Dryathlon
As An Associate member who had already reserved tickets in advance for this game, I am so disappointed that I cannot introduce my extra couple of guests to the full Franklins Gardens experience and illustrate exactly why we are so proud to be Saints Fans ... in the Beckett beforehand followed by the Chippie and then a couple in the Rodber whilst mixing with all the fans home and away.
Looks like anyone can still become a registered supporter (the opposition fans will just get a friend or family member in blighty to order for them) and then book as many tickets as they want ... I guarantee you that Munster will have at least 7,000 in the ground that day thereby negating a fair part of the advantage we would have had.
Looks like anyone can still become a registered supporter (the opposition fans will just get a friend or family member in blighty to order for them) and then book as many tickets as they want ... I guarantee you that Munster will have at least 7,000 in the ground that day thereby negating a fair part of the advantage we would have had.
Quote:Matthew
The cynic in my says this kind of thing is why the announced FG expansion is smaller than originally mooted.
The cynic in me says that the ASDA plan is a dead duck.
Asda have enough on their plate with absorbing Netto, and even if they don't win it all - a big chunk of Iceland. A small store in Jimmies end is not high up their priority list!
Thats why it's a smaller increase (to get is over the line for HC knock out stages. (e.g. can you see Castres or Toulouse even filling a 15,500 stadium here?)
The Irish games are a bit different and will help the club to afford to self finance the build. (It is also the model most preferred by all the Prem clubs to resolve such issues)
Stupid Headline of the day?
The Chron - This could cost the Town £1m - Saints own figures.
Even if (as should have happened when the bozos in my party who ran (hahahahaha) the town had first knowledge of the plan) the build had started quickly, it would not be ready for the £1m than COULD be generated in MK.
It all goes to show that retail moves very quickly and if you don't keep up instantly - you're never going to catch up.
David L
What if there were no hypothetical questions?
- Live wrong and preposterously
People talking about the death of the club and we are just seen as a vehicle to make money is not true in my opinion.
We are very happy that we have a financially secure club. We want that to continue. To do that we must be pragmatic about this.
I understand why the club are doing this. There is a lot of money to be made and we need that in order to finance the new stand. I suspect as David says above that the club are working on there being no money from Asda and are preparing accordingly.
It is up to us al to bring as many Saints supporters as we can. I wil be having quite a few guests for this match.
“Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one.”
Benjamin Franklin
Tetleys Block F E143
We are very happy that we have a financially secure club. We want that to continue. To do that we must be pragmatic about this.
I understand why the club are doing this. There is a lot of money to be made and we need that in order to finance the new stand. I suspect as David says above that the club are working on there being no money from Asda and are preparing accordingly.
It is up to us al to bring as many Saints supporters as we can. I wil be having quite a few guests for this match.
“Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one.”
Benjamin Franklin
Tetleys Block F E143
A few questions to answer, which I'll do as best as I can...
- - -
@ChrisHoddle - As a car park season pass holder you will automatically have a car parking place at stadiumMK for the game. With regard to seating positions, as is mentioned a couple of times in the announcement we have superimposed our seating plan onto stadiumMK. As much as is humanly possible everyone will be sitting next to the people who they normally sit with at the Gardens.
- - -
@StRich - Terracing tickets have been allocated along Friends and Family lines; if you are linked online you should all be grouped together. That said, if you get the customer numbers of everyone on the terrace that you want to sit with email the Ticket Office and we will get you all grouped together. Tickets are not being sent out for another four weeks so there is plenty of time for us to get it sorted. Unlike the Ulster game terracing Season Ticket Holders will be sitting along the sides of the pitch, not at the end (unless you're in the Shrubbery Terrace, in which case you'll be in the corner as you are at the Gardens).
Also, you say that the game 'has just been turned into a Munster home match'. It will only be that way if Saints Season Ticket Holders don't order additional tickets for friends, work colleagues, family etc etc.
- - -
@ChrisG and Kenneth - The incentive for Munster fans to stay in Northampton can also come from the hotels and businesses of the town to market themselves to people coming from Limerick.
- - -
@alan_t - Although we will be lobbying for the game to be on a Saturday the actual date has still to be confirmed by ERC - which would still have been the case for the Gardens. If the game were to stay here and kick off at 6pm would you still be able to make it?
- - -
@StBleach - Leicester were able to keep games in the city because there was a stadium just across the road that could hold considerably more people than Welford Road. This just isn't the case in Northampton. Our nearest such stadium is in Milton Keynes, which is also one of our supporter bases.
- - -
One final thing to note. We appreciate that there will be people who are disappointed by the news.
However we are in the position where we have to keep growing the club in order to maintain the revenues that will enable us to compete without having to rely on a sugar daddy - in other words, maintain our independence and the longevity of the club.
To do this we have to be attracting people from outside Northampton, which is a finite pool of people. We want to be the Premiership Rugby club of choice for people from across the east of England. In a couple of years we will have 2,000 extra seats to fill at Franklin's Gardens - where will they come from? And in a time of economic hardship when people have less disposable income, we need more people to be buying tickets or shirts because they'll be doing it less often.
ChrisG says 'it's all about the money, stupid'. Well in a time when the salary cap is going up and there is the possibility of a marquee player next season we have to be thinking of how this is all to be funded. We can either a) be reliant on one or two individuals who are willing to bail us out every year, or b) invest in the Gardens (which we are doing) and retain the option of playing outside the town where necessary, which as I said before enables us to maintain the financial independence of which we are so proud. As posters from here put on other threads about club funding, we are a self-sustaining business and want it to stay that way.
- - -
I'll be at Sixways tonight if anyone wants to chat about this in person!
- - -
@ChrisHoddle - As a car park season pass holder you will automatically have a car parking place at stadiumMK for the game. With regard to seating positions, as is mentioned a couple of times in the announcement we have superimposed our seating plan onto stadiumMK. As much as is humanly possible everyone will be sitting next to the people who they normally sit with at the Gardens.
- - -
@StRich - Terracing tickets have been allocated along Friends and Family lines; if you are linked online you should all be grouped together. That said, if you get the customer numbers of everyone on the terrace that you want to sit with email the Ticket Office and we will get you all grouped together. Tickets are not being sent out for another four weeks so there is plenty of time for us to get it sorted. Unlike the Ulster game terracing Season Ticket Holders will be sitting along the sides of the pitch, not at the end (unless you're in the Shrubbery Terrace, in which case you'll be in the corner as you are at the Gardens).
Also, you say that the game 'has just been turned into a Munster home match'. It will only be that way if Saints Season Ticket Holders don't order additional tickets for friends, work colleagues, family etc etc.
- - -
@ChrisG and Kenneth - The incentive for Munster fans to stay in Northampton can also come from the hotels and businesses of the town to market themselves to people coming from Limerick.
- - -
@alan_t - Although we will be lobbying for the game to be on a Saturday the actual date has still to be confirmed by ERC - which would still have been the case for the Gardens. If the game were to stay here and kick off at 6pm would you still be able to make it?
- - -
@StBleach - Leicester were able to keep games in the city because there was a stadium just across the road that could hold considerably more people than Welford Road. This just isn't the case in Northampton. Our nearest such stadium is in Milton Keynes, which is also one of our supporter bases.
- - -
One final thing to note. We appreciate that there will be people who are disappointed by the news.
However we are in the position where we have to keep growing the club in order to maintain the revenues that will enable us to compete without having to rely on a sugar daddy - in other words, maintain our independence and the longevity of the club.
To do this we have to be attracting people from outside Northampton, which is a finite pool of people. We want to be the Premiership Rugby club of choice for people from across the east of England. In a couple of years we will have 2,000 extra seats to fill at Franklin's Gardens - where will they come from? And in a time of economic hardship when people have less disposable income, we need more people to be buying tickets or shirts because they'll be doing it less often.
ChrisG says 'it's all about the money, stupid'. Well in a time when the salary cap is going up and there is the possibility of a marquee player next season we have to be thinking of how this is all to be funded. We can either a) be reliant on one or two individuals who are willing to bail us out every year, or b) invest in the Gardens (which we are doing) and retain the option of playing outside the town where necessary, which as I said before enables us to maintain the financial independence of which we are so proud. As posters from here put on other threads about club funding, we are a self-sustaining business and want it to stay that way.
- - -
I'll be at Sixways tonight if anyone wants to chat about this in person!
@Saints71 - You will be able to order additional tickets for the game from 12noon on Tuesday. Make sure when you order that you let the Ticket Office team know that you have already booked tickets and that you want to sit with your additional people.
I think it is a damned good idea. We need the revenue and the lessons learnt from last season will make it work as a venue.
Mind you, whilst reading some of the posts above have made me consider slitting my wrists, that moment has passed and I look forward to the game.
Only two things supporters need to do.
1. Bring friends
2. Bring NOISE!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2011:09:30:10:44:47 by Stockers.
Mind you, whilst reading some of the posts above have made me consider slitting my wrists, that moment has passed and I look forward to the game.
Only two things supporters need to do.
1. Bring friends
2. Bring NOISE!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2011:09:30:10:44:47 by Stockers.
"The switch to stadiumMK has been made to give as many Saints supporters as possible the opportunity to cheer their team on against one of Europe’s biggest Heineken Cup outfits."
Wouldn't it be fairer to say that the game has been switched to maximise our profits knowing that Munster have one of the largest away supports of any side in Europe? As has been pointed out above, it is likely that this is going to allow many more Munster supporters to come to the game rather than some miraculous new Saints supporters to materialise and come.
Wouldn't it be fairer to say that the game has been switched to maximise our profits knowing that Munster have one of the largest away supports of any side in Europe? As has been pointed out above, it is likely that this is going to allow many more Munster supporters to come to the game rather than some miraculous new Saints supporters to materialise and come.
Never thought the Saints would turn on their own fans. This is all about money and shows the Club does not give a s..t about the supporters. If they did there would be free transport from the Gardens. This will happen again. I am surprised the Club have in effect given up on this years Heineken as this will now be a Munster home game. with our problems on the pitch at present the chances of a top 6 finish appears remote in view of loss of players to the 6 Nations after the world cup.There are enough grumbles about season tickets without this. Now is the time for fans to stand up and be counted and ensure this does not happen again. Share holders can seek an Extraordinary General Meeting and whist the Barwell shares will ensure the Club win it would be interesting to see if the Barwell family are prepared to fight the fans.I believe if shareholders take a stand this will never happen again. SHAME ON YOU SAINTS BOARD. Interesting to see they did not have the guts to announce this prior to the AGM. This will come back to bite the Club. If we loose this game we may well not even reach the quarter finals and may not qualify for next seasons Heineken. The Club will then loose far more than they will gain and I trust the idiots who proposed this stupid move will fall on their swords. I doubt it though as clearly they have no interest in the Rugby side of the Club only PROFIT.
@Kenneth - Are you really saying that you don't know anyone who is not a Season Ticket Holder but who wants to come to the game? I don't believe that for a second! Moving to MK means that they can come and watch, and as a Season Ticket Holder you can book tickets on their behalf from Tuesday!
How does a club grow? By attracting new fans.
How do you attract new fans? In a large part by having your current fans bring their friends, who in turn enjoy the day and start buying tickets of their own accord.
How does a club grow? By attracting new fans.
How do you attract new fans? In a large part by having your current fans bring their friends, who in turn enjoy the day and start buying tickets of their own accord.
I know lots of people from work who'd be interested. Only problem is, they'll be working if it's a Saturday...
While I'd much rather this game would be held at FG, I'll be going to MK anyway.
Photo Gallery
While I'd much rather this game would be held at FG, I'll be going to MK anyway.
Photo Gallery
@chrisw
how do I check who I am linked to please?
No alcohol for January. I'm a dryathlete in aid of cancer research.
Dryathlon
how do I check who I am linked to please?
No alcohol for January. I'm a dryathlete in aid of cancer research.
Dryathlon
@StRich - email the Ticket Office. It's probably be going to be easier for you to get the numbers of the people you want to be with at next Saturday's game, then email in after that. There's plenty of time!!
I understand your arguments Chris, all valid. But,
This is also a Must win match in the group of death. Progression into the later rounds is by no means certain and this decision could see us dropping into the lower their competition.
But I'd guess the coaching team are already preparing for a lower seed finish at best if we are fortunate enough to come through the group and that in turn means away quarter finals and semi finals probably in France or Ireland.
So essentially are the club looking to make the most of the one chance for a 'Grand day out'?
Fair enough... just don't let the ticket office screw us all over again. cheers.
This is also a Must win match in the group of death. Progression into the later rounds is by no means certain and this decision could see us dropping into the lower their competition.
But I'd guess the coaching team are already preparing for a lower seed finish at best if we are fortunate enough to come through the group and that in turn means away quarter finals and semi finals probably in France or Ireland.
So essentially are the club looking to make the most of the one chance for a 'Grand day out'?
Fair enough... just don't let the ticket office screw us all over again. cheers.
@ChrisW -living approx 100 yards from the gardens, my transport costs to get to a home game are zero. Will the club be taking any measures to ensure this remains the same??
Picking up on other points made, how hypercritical can you get too publically slate the last NBC for allowing £1m of business to go to MK., then within a few months do the same thing themselves.
On the subject of Shareholders, we put our money into the club to build the Franklins Gardens capacity, not for the club to take a standard home fixture to MK.
On the subject of Shareholders, we put our money into the club to build the Franklins Gardens capacity, not for the club to take a standard home fixture to MK.
Quote from @chriswearmouth (why the "@" all of a sudden??):
And in a time of economic hardship when people have less disposable income, we need more people to be buying tickets or shirts because they'll be doing it less often.
So you make us pay more on travel for a standard home game?
And in a time of economic hardship when people have less disposable income, we need more people to be buying tickets or shirts because they'll be doing it less often.
So you make us pay more on travel for a standard home game?
Chris Wearmouth has explained well the reasons why. At first I thought what a stupid idea but am coming round to it.
So many clubs in Europe move games to accommodate larger crowds.
Let's make it a fantastic day out and hope ERC don't put us at some god awful time.
Be positive.
So many clubs in Europe move games to accommodate larger crowds.
Let's make it a fantastic day out and hope ERC don't put us at some god awful time.
Be positive.
'the club of choice for people across the East of England' - that comments smacks of the creation of MILTON KEYNES SAINTS in the not too distant future.
Sorry, Chris, we know you have to put forward the clubs official line, that after all is your job - I'm just not sure whether you really believe it ! This is a very emotive issue and adverse reaction only to be expected - I just wonder if the powers that be actually give a damn ?
Sorry, Chris, we know you have to put forward the clubs official line, that after all is your job - I'm just not sure whether you really believe it ! This is a very emotive issue and adverse reaction only to be expected - I just wonder if the powers that be actually give a damn ?
Of course if they do this to last match of the season SWH10 will be a much shorter walk
No alcohol for January. I'm a dryathlete in aid of cancer research.
Dryathlon
No alcohol for January. I'm a dryathlete in aid of cancer research.
Dryathlon
I fear that Saints fans may be voting on this with their feet and that the additional saints fans wanted for the game could be negated by those amongst us who feel shortchanged here.
I am very disappointed at this decision as home is home, is home and no amount of flags, banners and other stuff can detract from this.
From a revenue perspective, this will allow a very large contingent of Munster fans to come to the game and Stadium MK will become a second Thormond Park as a result.
I believe that the short term financial benefit will be a long term financial loss.
I'll be there I guess, but begrudgingly.
I am very disappointed at this decision as home is home, is home and no amount of flags, banners and other stuff can detract from this.
From a revenue perspective, this will allow a very large contingent of Munster fans to come to the game and Stadium MK will become a second Thormond Park as a result.
I believe that the short term financial benefit will be a long term financial loss.
I'll be there I guess, but begrudgingly.
Minor declaration of interest first - we live on the only bus route in Milton Keynes to stop ouside Stadium MK (so in theory, I should be happy).
Congratulations to the money grabbing idiots who have made this decision - you have now turned the club that I've watched since I was 6 into a franchise - by taking the Saints out of Northampton, you're essentially taking the Northampton out of the Saints. In answer to Chris W's point about funding any marquee player next season, we all know that to get the player we want, we need to be in the Heineken Cup next season. Playing four matches away from home (and consequently probably committing the side, can't use the word "club" any more, to at least one more trip should be survive into the last eight) is a completely reckless decision.
You have screwed your most loyal supporters in the "need" to obtain more. We all saw what happened two years ago - for all the good this is going to do from a supporting point of view we may as well have moved the match to Dale Farm!
Not happy - in fact, very very angry.
Congratulations to the money grabbing idiots who have made this decision - you have now turned the club that I've watched since I was 6 into a franchise - by taking the Saints out of Northampton, you're essentially taking the Northampton out of the Saints. In answer to Chris W's point about funding any marquee player next season, we all know that to get the player we want, we need to be in the Heineken Cup next season. Playing four matches away from home (and consequently probably committing the side, can't use the word "club" any more, to at least one more trip should be survive into the last eight) is a completely reckless decision.
You have screwed your most loyal supporters in the "need" to obtain more. We all saw what happened two years ago - for all the good this is going to do from a supporting point of view we may as well have moved the match to Dale Farm!
Not happy - in fact, very very angry.
I think this is a great idea, had two cracking days out last year at MK, spoke to way more people both saints and ulster/perpignan fans than I normally would have done and made a real couple of days of it being able to bring more friends with me than would normally be able.
Also, we may see a halo effect if England happen to in the world cup. Look at how many extra tickets were seen sold across the premiership after the success of 2003, didn't ticket sales rise by 20% or something? If England win the world cup we will sell this out no problem.
If we sell 16000 tickets and Munster 8000 the atmosphere will be amazing.
Also, we may see a halo effect if England happen to in the world cup. Look at how many extra tickets were seen sold across the premiership after the success of 2003, didn't ticket sales rise by 20% or something? If England win the world cup we will sell this out no problem.
If we sell 16000 tickets and Munster 8000 the atmosphere will be amazing.
After the start of the season we've had there definitely seems to be a lot of negativity on here. Now this is some decent news I think, and people are still up in arms.
To all the moaners (and there are a lot of you) just realise that there is going to be more people there than the Gardens and therefore more noise = more atmosphere. The HC games there before had great atmoshperes, so quit your whining and focus on what is important: RUGBY. It'll be a great day.
FHS.
To all the moaners (and there are a lot of you) just realise that there is going to be more people there than the Gardens and therefore more noise = more atmosphere. The HC games there before had great atmoshperes, so quit your whining and focus on what is important: RUGBY. It'll be a great day.
FHS.
Great news!
You can't always get what you want, But if you try sometimes well you might find, You get what you need.
Richards/Jagger
You can't always get what you want, But if you try sometimes well you might find, You get what you need.
Richards/Jagger
"How does a club grow? By attracting new fans.
How do you attract new fans? In a large part by having your current fans bring their friends, who in turn enjoy the day and start buying tickets of their own accord"
A lot of the reasons friends of fans stay on as Saints fans is because of that intangible extra that a stadium like FG has. Whenever i bring friends, they don't comment especially on the sport they remark on the atmosphere and the friendlieness of both sets of fans. FG has its own unique feel and it is that atmosphere that excites people and gets them coming back.
We all like to get in early have a pint and a chat, wander round see whats going onenjoy the ambience, then there is the match.
I can still feel the hairs on the back of my neck rise when i think about the last game against Munster, the damp cold & all the noise packed into the stadium, the excitement and raw voices of all the people around me (who i normally i nod to but at that moment they felt like family) and with five minutes to go and that ominous Munster maul heading to the try line,I felt i was with the team i was that close but i kept flicking my eyes to the clocks, back to the pitch c'mon one more effort, to the clocks, to the pitch...
MK dons stadium is in a dusty car park.
You don't sit next to your Saints friends, you are distant to the action.
Whilst i understand the financial imperative I feel more strongly about the spirit of FG and the Saints and I think you can pack as many people in as possible and yes it could be loud but it won't have the atmosphere of a true saints match and its that untangible extra that keeps the fans coming back.
How do you attract new fans? In a large part by having your current fans bring their friends, who in turn enjoy the day and start buying tickets of their own accord"
A lot of the reasons friends of fans stay on as Saints fans is because of that intangible extra that a stadium like FG has. Whenever i bring friends, they don't comment especially on the sport they remark on the atmosphere and the friendlieness of both sets of fans. FG has its own unique feel and it is that atmosphere that excites people and gets them coming back.
We all like to get in early have a pint and a chat, wander round see whats going onenjoy the ambience, then there is the match.
I can still feel the hairs on the back of my neck rise when i think about the last game against Munster, the damp cold & all the noise packed into the stadium, the excitement and raw voices of all the people around me (who i normally i nod to but at that moment they felt like family) and with five minutes to go and that ominous Munster maul heading to the try line,I felt i was with the team i was that close but i kept flicking my eyes to the clocks, back to the pitch c'mon one more effort, to the clocks, to the pitch...
MK dons stadium is in a dusty car park.
You don't sit next to your Saints friends, you are distant to the action.
Whilst i understand the financial imperative I feel more strongly about the spirit of FG and the Saints and I think you can pack as many people in as possible and yes it could be loud but it won't have the atmosphere of a true saints match and its that untangible extra that keeps the fans coming back.
Couldn't agree more with Mark H. RIP Northampton Saints as a traditional rugby club. welcome to the world of Wasps, Irish, Sale, Sarries etc
Make new friends but keep the old. One is silver (hospitality?) and the other gold (hospitality)
Like it or otherwise, this is the way pro rugby is going. It's inevitable as I said before last season's HC KO games at stadium:mk. Those were fine & this will be too for the majority of the crowd (if not possibly for a number of posters on this site).
You could argue that we've been a bit slow to cotton on to this sort of business (for that is what Northampton Saints plc is & has been for some time - like it or lump it) expansion sort of thing with the likes of Saracens, Harlequins & Wasps well ahead of us. And before anyone says that we don't want to be like those clubs, think about it - we're all pro rugby club businesses now, or 'franchises' if you like.
The pragmatic reality of this situation for pro rugby (as well as that of the constantly changing kick-off times) is take it for what it is, or if you prefer the more "traditional" rugby day out, try Bedford, which is where I'll be getting my live rugby fix this weekend...
PS Sympathies to Chris W! Not an easy job to have at moments like this, I reckon!!
You could argue that we've been a bit slow to cotton on to this sort of business (for that is what Northampton Saints plc is & has been for some time - like it or lump it) expansion sort of thing with the likes of Saracens, Harlequins & Wasps well ahead of us. And before anyone says that we don't want to be like those clubs, think about it - we're all pro rugby club businesses now, or 'franchises' if you like.
The pragmatic reality of this situation for pro rugby (as well as that of the constantly changing kick-off times) is take it for what it is, or if you prefer the more "traditional" rugby day out, try Bedford, which is where I'll be getting my live rugby fix this weekend...
PS Sympathies to Chris W! Not an easy job to have at moments like this, I reckon!!
and just a little whine from me too - last time the seats were mapped across, we ended sitting right in the corner at ground level, when i normally sit in front of the 22 and up a few rows.....not going to be happy if that's the case again.
On the other hand, i understand capitalism
On the other hand, i understand capitalism
i can sort of agree with all of these arguments if we were in the post new stand era. However the capacity is currently 13 and a half, Munster will take all of their allocation leaving no room for any friends of season ticket holders, so it seems the Club are caught between a rock and a hard place. Let's not forget it is a thriving Business and it is only 1 regular season game. on top of that given the revised plans it would appear Asda are no longer part funding the new stand so the Club need to pay for it somehow, so identifying extra revenue opportunities surely goes towards that. Continued success on the field has it's price and IMO being inconvenienced once or twice a season is worth it if the team is competing in the major competitions at the end of the season. If the Club does this when the capacity is upped i will joing the grumbling... we are unbeaten at MK
@Mobbs - We're making a five million pound investment into Franklin's Gardens in 18 months' time. Does this not say enough in itself?
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@100perSaint - I agree with your overall premise. However if you cast your mind back to the 2000 final you'll remember that Twickenham was rocking in a way not seen there before. That was down to the people, not the location. Yes, the Gardens is special, but we've all been here when the atmosphere has been as flat as a pancake. Atmosphere comes from people, not just from a location.
Furthermore, we have gone to great lengths to make sure that Season Ticket Holders have been allocated a seat in MK that is next to the same people as they normally sit next to at the Gardens. So you will be sat next your Saint friends (unless you bring a load of other people and want to sit with them instead).
- - -
@MarkH - We will have to agree to disagree on this one. See you at the Exeter match for a chat, no doubt!! ;-)
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@BrianB - It's a modern thing, and I've always been one to follow the trend set by someone else... ;-)
- - -
@100perSaint - I agree with your overall premise. However if you cast your mind back to the 2000 final you'll remember that Twickenham was rocking in a way not seen there before. That was down to the people, not the location. Yes, the Gardens is special, but we've all been here when the atmosphere has been as flat as a pancake. Atmosphere comes from people, not just from a location.
Furthermore, we have gone to great lengths to make sure that Season Ticket Holders have been allocated a seat in MK that is next to the same people as they normally sit next to at the Gardens. So you will be sat next your Saint friends (unless you bring a load of other people and want to sit with them instead).
- - -
@MarkH - We will have to agree to disagree on this one. See you at the Exeter match for a chat, no doubt!! ;-)
- - -
@BrianB - It's a modern thing, and I've always been one to follow the trend set by someone else... ;-)
"@ChrisG and Kenneth - The incentive for Munster fans to stay in Northampton can also come from the hotels and businesses of the town to market themselves to people coming from Limerick."
Sorry Chris but its a no brainer if you can stay in a hotel down the road, you stay in the hotel down the road. The vast majority of fans from Ireland are going for the game not the delights N'ton can offer it.
Sorry Chris but its a no brainer if you can stay in a hotel down the road, you stay in the hotel down the road. The vast majority of fans from Ireland are going for the game not the delights N'ton can offer it.
It's quite amusing now to read the thoughts of people here on this subject. Basically people seem angry we are trying to get more money from this match! So what if we're "copying" other clubs. We're getting extra income. Its a professional game. It IS about money sometimes.
And to the few people that are saying things like "pay my travel expenses to get to MK" get over yourself. What do the hundreds of people that live in MK do every week come rain or shine? Get over yourself.
Plus its not like you're going to never see the people that you normally sit next to ever again!
This is turning in to the most ridiculous argument ever!
FHS.
And to the few people that are saying things like "pay my travel expenses to get to MK" get over yourself. What do the hundreds of people that live in MK do every week come rain or shine? Get over yourself.
Plus its not like you're going to never see the people that you normally sit next to ever again!
This is turning in to the most ridiculous argument ever!
FHS.
But then Chris, isn't it up to Northampton and Northamptonshire to spend a bit of time and effort marketing itself to show off its delights to people from Limerick?
As a fan we support a rugby club that we want to stay traditional - and by and large it has. We don't have music after scores, we don't have dancing girls (mind you those US ones at Quins 
)and we don't exhort the supporters to make noise - well apart from once ;-).
What we are also is a business of which I and many of you are shareholders. We have been blessed with a successful business that has built and expanded the ground, survived relegation, without making losses. As a businessman (and yes we are a business) you have to look at the way to get the best return for the business. As such we have a match we can sell out at MK and make a substantial amount of cash. When we expand the ground again we will need all of that cash so that the new mortgage is as small as possible. That way we remain a viable long term business.
“Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one.”
Benjamin Franklin
Tetleys Block F E143
)and we don't exhort the supporters to make noise - well apart from once ;-).
What we are also is a business of which I and many of you are shareholders. We have been blessed with a successful business that has built and expanded the ground, survived relegation, without making losses. As a businessman (and yes we are a business) you have to look at the way to get the best return for the business. As such we have a match we can sell out at MK and make a substantial amount of cash. When we expand the ground again we will need all of that cash so that the new mortgage is as small as possible. That way we remain a viable long term business.
“Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one.”
Benjamin Franklin
Tetleys Block F E143
FHS, the issue is, we will be out-numbered in our "home" stadium.
Saints supporters, SUPPORTERS NOT FANS GET IT BLOOMIN RIGHT, would normally turn up to the opening of an envelop. But it would be nice to see some return for helping to keep the club growing.
2 seasons ago the club allowed Munster supporters to join the supporters club and snaffle up hundreds of tickets for the Saturday night game at FG.
So remember this day in January when were moaning about a lack of spirt or a subdued atmosphere, some twonk on sky going on and on about the munster support.
Theyre great yeah, fine, blah blah blah. welcome to Milton Keynes, have beer and shout in a monotonus tone.
I wanna win, that should be the be all and end all of it.
At Mk were giving away almost every advantage we have to Cauliflower feet and the Violet Bott.
The management know this is realistically the only certain money making opportunity that will come their way this year. But, bite the hand that feeds you...
Saints supporters, SUPPORTERS NOT FANS GET IT BLOOMIN RIGHT, would normally turn up to the opening of an envelop. But it would be nice to see some return for helping to keep the club growing.
2 seasons ago the club allowed Munster supporters to join the supporters club and snaffle up hundreds of tickets for the Saturday night game at FG.
So remember this day in January when were moaning about a lack of spirt or a subdued atmosphere, some twonk on sky going on and on about the munster support.
Theyre great yeah, fine, blah blah blah. welcome to Milton Keynes, have beer and shout in a monotonus tone.
I wanna win, that should be the be all and end all of it.
At Mk were giving away almost every advantage we have to Cauliflower feet and the Violet Bott.
The management know this is realistically the only certain money making opportunity that will come their way this year. But, bite the hand that feeds you...
Quote:Chris Wearmouth
ChrisG says 'it's all about the money, stupid'. Well in a time when the salary cap is going up and there is the possibility of a marquee player next season we have to be thinking of how this is all to be funded. We can either a) be reliant on one or two individuals who are willing to bail us out every year, or b) invest in the Gardens (which we are doing) and retain the option of playing outside the town where necessary, which as I said before enables us to maintain the financial independence of which we are so proud. As posters from here put on other threads about club funding, we are a self-sustaining business and want it to stay that way.
Totally accept that argument Chris even though i don't agree with it as I think theres a chance the baby might be thrown out with the bath water but perhaps the club should be more clear cut in their press statement if thats the case rather than the rah rah rah of we've done it so more Saints supporters can attend when in reality it makes it harder for the majority of the usual support to be there. I'm lucky i'm not in that bracket but casting my mind back to the last Munster game just how much was the atmosphere on the night at the Gardens a deciding factor and lets be honest that will never be recreated at MK however much we kid ourselves it will.
Quote:Chris Wearmouth
But then Chris, isn't it up to Northampton and Northamptonshire to spend a bit of time and effort marketing itself to show off its delights to people from Limerick?
I'd probably consider it good money after bad Chris if I was a local business owner, especially when not so long ago the club was up in arms because business was going to MK because of the devilish council.
Rob: If we're outnumbered in our own stadium, we'll just have to shout louder.
FHS.
FHS.
CW - may we be told the cost to the club of a fixture at Mk as compared to the match day cost at FG ?
I feel compelled to enter into this debate; at hte end of last season when the new S/T prices were announced I posted to suggest people let the discounted price go and wait and see how are fixtures fell and what effect TV scheduling had - fair enough this was largely ignored and CW reponded that the Club were negotiting for a good deal and that he would get back to us - or words to that effect. I never saw anything along those lines.
Now we have this news, not great in my opinion,I went to MK and thoroughly enjoyed those games but this is a pool game when we need every advantage.A 2:1 ratio at MK is far worse than the ratio at FG where is it only 10% of tickest have to go to away supporters - we need to intimidate Munster - that would be harder to do at MK - at Thomond Park we were split up and marginalised which made it hard for our presence to be felt. In January I can see a lot of people counting the pennies not thinking "Oh look lets go and watch the Saints at MK".
I realise that this is a means to end in terms of funding the ground expansion but what if ALL those extra supporters suddenly bought season tickets - the expansion would not be enough.
Think again please Saints as this only gives reason for NBC to turn down any planning application as they will think no matter they can go to MK for the big ones.
As for us supporters - when it comes to buying a season ticket in future - Caveat Emptor.
Now we have this news, not great in my opinion,I went to MK and thoroughly enjoyed those games but this is a pool game when we need every advantage.A 2:1 ratio at MK is far worse than the ratio at FG where is it only 10% of tickest have to go to away supporters - we need to intimidate Munster - that would be harder to do at MK - at Thomond Park we were split up and marginalised which made it hard for our presence to be felt. In January I can see a lot of people counting the pennies not thinking "Oh look lets go and watch the Saints at MK".
I realise that this is a means to end in terms of funding the ground expansion but what if ALL those extra supporters suddenly bought season tickets - the expansion would not be enough.
Think again please Saints as this only gives reason for NBC to turn down any planning application as they will think no matter they can go to MK for the big ones.
As for us supporters - when it comes to buying a season ticket in future - Caveat Emptor.
Chris
I have to counter your point about the £5 million investment at FG. I seem to remember that Arsenal ( yes that club again ) spent millions developing Highbury with new stands behind each set of posts but then moved when it suited them. Ok, not perhaps a fair comparison but no surprise that the costs of ground development coincided with a lack of income for players and a failure to win trophies.
The club must ask itself what is more important - success on the field or making a buck from MK. The two of course are not mutually exclusive but the fact is that Saints did not fill MK for the semi-final last year - thousands upon thousands of new supporters did not suddenly materialise as they also failed to do so in the finals at Sixways and the Stoop. Any edge against Munster is vital, they are used to playing on the big stage and have more experience than the Saints in doing so despite our relative success over the last couple of years or so. It may be that the final pool stage game is totally academic, we are in a tough group after all - but, and its a big 'but', if it all comes down to the wire, a partisan sell-out at FG might, just might, make all the difference as it did two years ago. We all know that MK in January will be in effect a neutral venue and that the red of Munster will be in great evidence. Failure to progress in the HC beyond the group stages will be finacially very significant to the club - this is a calculated risk, it may come off but I fear it may not and regardless of the outcome, the club must realise that they have upset many, though to be fair not all, supporters of the club.
I have to counter your point about the £5 million investment at FG. I seem to remember that Arsenal ( yes that club again ) spent millions developing Highbury with new stands behind each set of posts but then moved when it suited them. Ok, not perhaps a fair comparison but no surprise that the costs of ground development coincided with a lack of income for players and a failure to win trophies.
The club must ask itself what is more important - success on the field or making a buck from MK. The two of course are not mutually exclusive but the fact is that Saints did not fill MK for the semi-final last year - thousands upon thousands of new supporters did not suddenly materialise as they also failed to do so in the finals at Sixways and the Stoop. Any edge against Munster is vital, they are used to playing on the big stage and have more experience than the Saints in doing so despite our relative success over the last couple of years or so. It may be that the final pool stage game is totally academic, we are in a tough group after all - but, and its a big 'but', if it all comes down to the wire, a partisan sell-out at FG might, just might, make all the difference as it did two years ago. We all know that MK in January will be in effect a neutral venue and that the red of Munster will be in great evidence. Failure to progress in the HC beyond the group stages will be finacially very significant to the club - this is a calculated risk, it may come off but I fear it may not and regardless of the outcome, the club must realise that they have upset many, though to be fair not all, supporters of the club.
Got to pull you up on a point there Robbie - The Supporters Club is entirely seperate from the Saints. We have no access to matchday tickets.
What the Munster Supporters did, was join the Saints as associate members. I beleive that this loophole has been plugged now.
If any of you think that 7000 Munster supporters will outnumber Saints Supporters in an 18,000 seater, there are some serious issues with the education in this country.
Yes, it's a pool game. Yes, we're giving away 'home' advantage - but let's face it, we have a pretty good record in MK and if you read and digest the press release before spouting off indignately about where your seats will be etc, you'll see that the Club have already looked into that and have had more time to work out the logistics this time.
Come on, take the emotion out of your responses and look at it as an opportunity to fill the MK with GB&G - and shut the damn pundits up about 'Munsters marvellous fans'!
That was a Party Political broadcast on behalf of the NRFC Ltd
Terrace 'B' next to Mav, Shaddo, AB, Jeremy and Spud.
What the Munster Supporters did, was join the Saints as associate members. I beleive that this loophole has been plugged now.
If any of you think that 7000 Munster supporters will outnumber Saints Supporters in an 18,000 seater, there are some serious issues with the education in this country.
Yes, it's a pool game. Yes, we're giving away 'home' advantage - but let's face it, we have a pretty good record in MK and if you read and digest the press release before spouting off indignately about where your seats will be etc, you'll see that the Club have already looked into that and have had more time to work out the logistics this time.
Come on, take the emotion out of your responses and look at it as an opportunity to fill the MK with GB&G - and shut the damn pundits up about 'Munsters marvellous fans'!
That was a Party Political broadcast on behalf of the NRFC Ltd
Terrace 'B' next to Mav, Shaddo, AB, Jeremy and Spud.
Woo hoo! Can't wait! Wasn't it mentioned at the AGM that about how much of our profit was generated by the 2 games at MK? And that the players liked it too? What kind of club would turn down the opportunity of a repeat?!
If it attracts new fans who are actually prepared to get off their backsides (though don't block other's views) and cheers then it's all good. If this, in turn, clears out the stubborn "I've been here for 100 years" fans who won't cheer or clap out of prinicpal at games, then that's a small price to pay.
Go MK Saints!
If it attracts new fans who are actually prepared to get off their backsides (though don't block other's views) and cheers then it's all good. If this, in turn, clears out the stubborn "I've been here for 100 years" fans who won't cheer or clap out of prinicpal at games, then that's a small price to pay.
Go MK Saints!
As coincidence happens, i've recently been having a good laugh at Steve Tew spitting out his dummy over money. Then Saints pull this trick (especially folloing Leons "spirit and tradition" speech)..
V
V
TF,
"Woo hoo! Can't wait! Wasn't it mentioned at the AGM that about how much of our profit was generated by the 2 games at MK?"
It's important to note that those games were extras - this one's in the season ticket and money already banked.
"If it attracts new fans who are actually prepared to get off their backsides (though don't block other's views) and cheers then it's all good. If this, in turn, clears out the stubborn "I've been here for 100 years" fans who won't cheer or clap out of prinicpal at games, then that's a small price to pay."
You pays your money and takes your choice - if I don't want to shout and sing I'll be @#$%& if I'm going to be told by you I'm wrong.
"Woo hoo! Can't wait! Wasn't it mentioned at the AGM that about how much of our profit was generated by the 2 games at MK?"
It's important to note that those games were extras - this one's in the season ticket and money already banked.
"If it attracts new fans who are actually prepared to get off their backsides (though don't block other's views) and cheers then it's all good. If this, in turn, clears out the stubborn "I've been here for 100 years" fans who won't cheer or clap out of prinicpal at games, then that's a small price to pay."
You pays your money and takes your choice - if I don't want to shout and sing I'll be @#$%& if I'm going to be told by you I'm wrong.
Good to hear (or not hear as it's your choice). What if I asked nicely?
Another pleasant Saints fan. What is an "@#$%&" anyway?
Another pleasant Saints fan. What is an "@#$%&" anyway?
And the money may be "banked" but the capacity's bigger so more money can be "banked". Simple, no?
TF
Your second reply is valid but nowhere near as much profit as the two games last year.
Re your first reply, how is it you can be unpleasant to non-singers and I can't be equally forthright in return? Double standards me duck.
Your second reply is valid but nowhere near as much profit as the two games last year.
Re your first reply, how is it you can be unpleasant to non-singers and I can't be equally forthright in return? Double standards me duck.
I didn't swear or direct anything personally at you, Brian. There's a difference.
As a neutral where all this is concerned, I have read this thread with a lot of bemusement.
It certainly seems to fall into two main camps:-
In the majority on this thread (probably because they feel agrieved and want to post their thoughts and complaints) are those to whom the idea of not playing games at Northampton is tantamount to heresy, they seem insecure if they are not sitting next to the friends for an hour and a half and they might have to arrange some transport to Milton Keynes and not be able to get 'legless' as they might usually do. Perhaps once in the ground they might find the people they are sitting next to quite pleasant and if not it is only as I say for 90 minutes or so. Speak to people nicely and you never know they might swop seats with you so you can be with your mates.
Many, perhaps, secretly yearn for the pre professional days of traditional rugby clubs and sparse crowds and cheap beer? They certainly in my view do not move with the times. It is a professional game now and really the end result is in the 'bottom line'.
On the other hand is those who (in my opinion) form the silent majority and are much more pragmatic about the whole thing. They, like your club, live in the 21st Century and see the reasons for switching the game. They might not be in complete agreement with it, but they understand.
If your club has set in place 'failsafes' to stop Munster supporters getting more than their allocated share, trust them. The tickets are being sold early enough to allow you to get your hands on them, so get to it. One further point,nobody has so far mentioned that this game might even turn out to be a 'dead rubber' with neither team qualifying for the last 8, I hope it isn't, but there is that possibilty and your club are making the right noises early enough to get the cash in for extra tickets!
I assume that Chris Wearmouth is in some way connected/works for your club? He appears to have gone out of his way to calm the waters. A Saint indeed.
As a final thought, I can't see this game being the last you play at Milton Keynes, what price Tigers there sometime?
Thanks for allowing my input.
EF
It certainly seems to fall into two main camps:-
In the majority on this thread (probably because they feel agrieved and want to post their thoughts and complaints) are those to whom the idea of not playing games at Northampton is tantamount to heresy, they seem insecure if they are not sitting next to the friends for an hour and a half and they might have to arrange some transport to Milton Keynes and not be able to get 'legless' as they might usually do. Perhaps once in the ground they might find the people they are sitting next to quite pleasant and if not it is only as I say for 90 minutes or so. Speak to people nicely and you never know they might swop seats with you so you can be with your mates.
Many, perhaps, secretly yearn for the pre professional days of traditional rugby clubs and sparse crowds and cheap beer? They certainly in my view do not move with the times. It is a professional game now and really the end result is in the 'bottom line'.
On the other hand is those who (in my opinion) form the silent majority and are much more pragmatic about the whole thing. They, like your club, live in the 21st Century and see the reasons for switching the game. They might not be in complete agreement with it, but they understand.
If your club has set in place 'failsafes' to stop Munster supporters getting more than their allocated share, trust them. The tickets are being sold early enough to allow you to get your hands on them, so get to it. One further point,nobody has so far mentioned that this game might even turn out to be a 'dead rubber' with neither team qualifying for the last 8, I hope it isn't, but there is that possibilty and your club are making the right noises early enough to get the cash in for extra tickets!
I assume that Chris Wearmouth is in some way connected/works for your club? He appears to have gone out of his way to calm the waters. A Saint indeed.
As a final thought, I can't see this game being the last you play at Milton Keynes, what price Tigers there sometime?
Thanks for allowing my input.
EF
EF - You are welcome. Chris W is indeed associated with the club - he is the comms manager (Sorry if I have your exact title incorrect Chris).
This was always going to upset some. I sort of hope it doesn't become the norm to play say Tigs at MK. I have less issue with Munster as it is a one off - next season who knows if we will need to do this again.
I understand that the finances are compelling and yes we need to be mindful of that bottom line at all times - not to the detriment of the playing side but to support it.
“Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one.”
Benjamin Franklin
Tetleys Block F E143
This was always going to upset some. I sort of hope it doesn't become the norm to play say Tigs at MK. I have less issue with Munster as it is a one off - next season who knows if we will need to do this again.
I understand that the finances are compelling and yes we need to be mindful of that bottom line at all times - not to the detriment of the playing side but to support it.
“Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one.”
Benjamin Franklin
Tetleys Block F E143
So if anyone is annoyed about this then that's it, they're nowt more then a minority of spoilt brats?
Compelling arguement there
Compelling arguement there
I haven't said that.
“Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one.”
Benjamin Franklin
Tetleys Block F E143
“Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one.”
Benjamin Franklin
Tetleys Block F E143
Cripes !! OH yee of little faith
now heres a shocker " Old cumugeon supports radical move "
Yes thats right i am fully in support of this move - whtever personal inconveniences it may mean to me etc.
and its up to us to make it work. Although to read somepostings above we seemto have surrender tothe Munster Men before we start.
Why do i support this move -because whatever sentiments i have for FG and traditional club values etc i do recognise that we live -that is premiership clubs live in hard and uncertain times. The club needs the money and this an opportunity to make some.
Its not about screwing the fans or changing the nature of the club. Or perhaps some would rather we were 6m in debt and stuffed full of aging boks -well thats the route one club has taken.
No its a pragmatic and sensible move.
A story - When in 1917 the new Soviet Governement was about to meet the Germans tosign the Treatry of Brest Litosvk - taking Russia out of the war - Trostky allegedly expressed his concerens to Lenin that he might have to wear formal evening dress " the uniform of the class enemey " Lenin told him waer the ***ing suit ( in Russian of course - but get the treaty signed.
Even us old revolutionaries can be pragmatic.
So stop moaning and start planning what you can do to get as much Green Black and Gold as you can into the stadium.
Ps I am worried that they might run out of beer though.
now heres a shocker " Old cumugeon supports radical move "
Yes thats right i am fully in support of this move - whtever personal inconveniences it may mean to me etc.
and its up to us to make it work. Although to read somepostings above we seemto have surrender tothe Munster Men before we start.
Why do i support this move -because whatever sentiments i have for FG and traditional club values etc i do recognise that we live -that is premiership clubs live in hard and uncertain times. The club needs the money and this an opportunity to make some.
Its not about screwing the fans or changing the nature of the club. Or perhaps some would rather we were 6m in debt and stuffed full of aging boks -well thats the route one club has taken.
No its a pragmatic and sensible move.
A story - When in 1917 the new Soviet Governement was about to meet the Germans tosign the Treatry of Brest Litosvk - taking Russia out of the war - Trostky allegedly expressed his concerens to Lenin that he might have to wear formal evening dress " the uniform of the class enemey " Lenin told him waer the ***ing suit ( in Russian of course - but get the treaty signed.
Even us old revolutionaries can be pragmatic.
So stop moaning and start planning what you can do to get as much Green Black and Gold as you can into the stadium.
Ps I am worried that they might run out of beer though.
It was summat like that beef i couldn't recall the name of the club or society or scheme...
...still screwed us over though didnt it....
look, support it, dont support it, whatever.
get shouted down by munner at MK and any mystique the FG faithful have goes with it, and the result probably too.
The club spent 3 years turning FG into a fortress. Asides from the occasional flare up, it still is our greatest strength.
So if you support the lads, by go you better had do now.
...still screwed us over though didnt it....
look, support it, dont support it, whatever.
get shouted down by munner at MK and any mystique the FG faithful have goes with it, and the result probably too.
The club spent 3 years turning FG into a fortress. Asides from the occasional flare up, it still is our greatest strength.
So if you support the lads, by go you better had do now.
Personally, I cant wait for this game and think it's great that it's moved to MK.
I love bringing along non-rugby friends to games, and I now have a couple of bona-fide converts over the last few seasons who now regularly attend games.
It used to be relatively easy to get groups of tickets together, but this has become harder and harder, especially for 'big' games.
I took a couple of 'virgins' to the first MK game last year, and they couldn't wait to come back for the semi, and even made the effort to source tickets to the Final.
I fully intend to lay my hands on as many tickets as poss for this game and take a good bus full down.
As stated, the silent majority will turn up, with extra friends (not Irish I hope), and hopefully turn into the noisy majority.
Failing that...lets get relegated, knock down the stands and enjoy Saturday afternoon, 3pm rugby, on a muddy pitch behind rope barriers with warm beer!
Tommo, out!
I love bringing along non-rugby friends to games, and I now have a couple of bona-fide converts over the last few seasons who now regularly attend games.
It used to be relatively easy to get groups of tickets together, but this has become harder and harder, especially for 'big' games.
I took a couple of 'virgins' to the first MK game last year, and they couldn't wait to come back for the semi, and even made the effort to source tickets to the Final.
I fully intend to lay my hands on as many tickets as poss for this game and take a good bus full down.
As stated, the silent majority will turn up, with extra friends (not Irish I hope), and hopefully turn into the noisy majority.
Failing that...lets get relegated, knock down the stands and enjoy Saturday afternoon, 3pm rugby, on a muddy pitch behind rope barriers with warm beer!
Tommo, out!
Cannot believe the level of negativity from some Saints fans. Many clubs in Europe use the model of having a modest home ground with the use of a larger stadium nearby for those games that justify the demand. H-cup knockout games and Munster coming to town is just that! The club would be stupid to ignore this opportunity, not only does it make sense financially but it means more saints fans will be there. Judging by the two games last year this could be a superb occasion with no doubt a big munster contingent.
The previous two games at MK were great occasions both on the pitch and socially. Im sure we can all manage the short trip down the road to make this a success. Get behind the club, get your mates involved and lets make it an epic!!!!
The previous two games at MK were great occasions both on the pitch and socially. Im sure we can all manage the short trip down the road to make this a success. Get behind the club, get your mates involved and lets make it an epic!!!!
Quote:wheely
Failing that...lets get relegated, knock down the stands and enjoy Saturday afternoon, 3pm rugby, on a muddy pitch behind rope barriers with warm beer!
If that were to happen, people from Northampton would be able to buy a ticket for local entertainment in Northampton supporting a team from Northampton representing Northampton without having to commute away from Northampton, then not have to pay to get back to Northampton because they already were in Northampton.
Instead of commuting 35 miles (instead of 350 yards) to cheer "East Midlands".
Now that I think of it, for the all the mention of better atmosphere at MK last season, in neither game did I hear a decent 'O Wendy'. In the next games back at FG, I also remember thinking to myself how much louder the crowd seemed than it had done in MK.
Just me or did others find it similar?
Just me or did others find it similar?
Do you know it amazes me that some of the very same people who were anti-MK last year because it was the 'councils fault' are now very pro because its the clubs moving the game.
Quote:Chris B
Instead of commuting 35 miles (instead of 350 yards) to cheer "East Midlands".
Didn't know you lived in Welford Road.
For the record I originally decided to buy a ST after I was unable to get tickets for the home fixture against Munster thanks to the Munster fans getting around their ticket allocation. I'd finally had enough of not being able to see the bigger home matches.
From my point of view I understand and support this move; To a point although If this match ends up being played either Friday or Sunday I will have to miss it. If it was at FG that would not be an issue as traveling is easier.
One concern when deciding to renew my ST this season was the number of non-Saturday matches we would play but I countered this objection with the fact I can travel to FG easily. If I thought more than the odd game would be played at MK I would almost certainly not have renewed because the additional travel complications and time would mean I would most likely have to miss these games especially if they were not on Saturday afternoons.
I really don't have a problem with the odd big match being played at MK and I didn't find the atmosphere and seating positions too bad although I do prefer to stand. I am just concerned that this is the thin end of the wedge and more and more big games will be held there. A major factor when I renewed was I can walk to the ground easily in 30 minutes or drive into town and walk there in under 20.
Can Chris W give us an indication of how many other games are likely to be moved to MK this year? What are the odds if it's successful this year even more will move next season?
If it transpires that only Big HC game move there then I can live with that and justify renewing my ST again. If however we end up losing a couple of prem matches and most HC games from the gardens then I can't justify buying an ST for the next season and rather than gaining a supporter the club would loose one, not through my choice but through simple economics.
Does that make me selfish? Well according to some of the posts above it does. I just hope that these matches stay the exception if so more power to them, I just can't help feeling that they won't.
From my point of view I understand and support this move; To a point although If this match ends up being played either Friday or Sunday I will have to miss it. If it was at FG that would not be an issue as traveling is easier.
One concern when deciding to renew my ST this season was the number of non-Saturday matches we would play but I countered this objection with the fact I can travel to FG easily. If I thought more than the odd game would be played at MK I would almost certainly not have renewed because the additional travel complications and time would mean I would most likely have to miss these games especially if they were not on Saturday afternoons.
I really don't have a problem with the odd big match being played at MK and I didn't find the atmosphere and seating positions too bad although I do prefer to stand. I am just concerned that this is the thin end of the wedge and more and more big games will be held there. A major factor when I renewed was I can walk to the ground easily in 30 minutes or drive into town and walk there in under 20.
Can Chris W give us an indication of how many other games are likely to be moved to MK this year? What are the odds if it's successful this year even more will move next season?
If it transpires that only Big HC game move there then I can live with that and justify renewing my ST again. If however we end up losing a couple of prem matches and most HC games from the gardens then I can't justify buying an ST for the next season and rather than gaining a supporter the club would loose one, not through my choice but through simple economics.
Does that make me selfish? Well according to some of the posts above it does. I just hope that these matches stay the exception if so more power to them, I just can't help feeling that they won't.
Blimey - you lot have been busy having an excellent discussion in the time it took to get here to Worcester and get set up for tonight's game!
Firstly, for those of you who don't know, I am the Communications Manager for the club.
Secondly, I hope everyone will appreciate why I'm only going to answer the questions that I can (which unfortunately does not mean yours, tedge, because I'm not in a position to give that information out).
- - -
@RobbyRichmond - You talk about being outnumbered. The only way we will be outnumbered in MK is if Season Ticket Holders and members do not book all the tickets in the next four weeks. If people sit on their hands and do not order additional tickets then there will be more on the open market for Munster.
- - -
@Jeremy - Firstly, regardless of the stadium we have to give 15% of capacity to the away club in the group stages. For MK this is just over 3,000. Which also means that there are 18,000 up for grabs for Season Ticket Holders and members to order for their friends, family etc etc. I think that is a 6:1 ratio, not a 2:1. There were so many Munster fans at the Gardens two years ago because we were pretty lax in who we sold memberships to - that is not the case this time.
- - -
@Mobbs - It is worth pointing out that Arsenal in a fell swoop doubled their capacity while only moving 200 metres up the road. The equivalent for us would be moving up to Sixfields.
- - -
@Beef - The crate of beer is in the post... ;-)
Firstly, for those of you who don't know, I am the Communications Manager for the club.
Secondly, I hope everyone will appreciate why I'm only going to answer the questions that I can (which unfortunately does not mean yours, tedge, because I'm not in a position to give that information out).
- - -
@RobbyRichmond - You talk about being outnumbered. The only way we will be outnumbered in MK is if Season Ticket Holders and members do not book all the tickets in the next four weeks. If people sit on their hands and do not order additional tickets then there will be more on the open market for Munster.
- - -
@Jeremy - Firstly, regardless of the stadium we have to give 15% of capacity to the away club in the group stages. For MK this is just over 3,000. Which also means that there are 18,000 up for grabs for Season Ticket Holders and members to order for their friends, family etc etc. I think that is a 6:1 ratio, not a 2:1. There were so many Munster fans at the Gardens two years ago because we were pretty lax in who we sold memberships to - that is not the case this time.
- - -
@Mobbs - It is worth pointing out that Arsenal in a fell swoop doubled their capacity while only moving 200 metres up the road. The equivalent for us would be moving up to Sixfields.
- - -
@Beef - The crate of beer is in the post... ;-)
After that performance, negotiations are now underway to host the game at Old Scouts...
After reflecting on all the views (some extremely rude) I still think it’s not right to take a pool game to Mk. That is not to say I won’t be going, I will and I shall try and take some others with me.
I think it’s a risk for the following reasons.
We are not obliged, as I understand, to give a ticket allocation to Munster in the pool games, so make a huge effort and sell all non- season tickets seats to Northampton supporters and ensure 99% home support. What are the odds of doing that if we go to MK ? Well even most of those who support the MK move would agree that the task is difficult to say the least. We have around 9,000 ST holders so:
MK seats 22,000 we would have to sell 13,000 tickets to get it full of our supporters.
FG seats 13,500 we would need to sell 4,500, which we do most matches anyway.
I can’t believe the Munster fans will not somehow obtain a large % of the 13k, so don’t expect otherwise. Time will tell, but if we only sell a small % of the 13K we surrender the home advantage IMO. But as Chris G says, it’s all about money really.
I think it’s a risk for the following reasons.
We are not obliged, as I understand, to give a ticket allocation to Munster in the pool games, so make a huge effort and sell all non- season tickets seats to Northampton supporters and ensure 99% home support. What are the odds of doing that if we go to MK ? Well even most of those who support the MK move would agree that the task is difficult to say the least. We have around 9,000 ST holders so:
MK seats 22,000 we would have to sell 13,000 tickets to get it full of our supporters.
FG seats 13,500 we would need to sell 4,500, which we do most matches anyway.
I can’t believe the Munster fans will not somehow obtain a large % of the 13k, so don’t expect otherwise. Time will tell, but if we only sell a small % of the 13K we surrender the home advantage IMO. But as Chris G says, it’s all about money really.
John - ERC rules say we have to give the away team at least 15% of the capacity, obviously there's more scope for them to get extra tickets at MK than FG.
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Did not know that applied to pool games, only 1/4 finals etc.I thought. Bet they finish up with more than 15%.
There will only be more than 15% of the crowd as Munster fans if our own Season Ticket Holders and members don't snap up additional tickets in the next four weeks!
Quote:Chris Wearmouth
Secondly, I hope everyone will appreciate why I'm only going to answer the questions that I can (which unfortunately does not mean yours, tedge, because I'm not in a position to give that information out).
Tedge asked about the economics of the move. This issue is slipping under the radar. Saints will have to pay to hire MK Stadium, plus add-on costs. Who gets the profits from drinks and food? The profits will thus only come after deducting all that from the sale of tickets in excess of the 8500 ST holders. FG will still be sitting there, but empty and unused. Is the profit really going to be so great? I'm not surprised it's being kept secret. "Commercial confidentiality" is the usual get-out.
Quote:Chris Wearmouth
There will only be more than 15% of the crowd as Munster fans if our own Season Ticket Holders and members don't snap up additional tickets in the next four weeks!
Be very careful about putting a failure to fill 85% of mk on Northampton supporters Chris. While there is logic in the knock out stages (though at current performance we'll be fortunate) this is a board decision, and the board may just have miscalculated here.
David L
What if there were no hypothetical questions?
- Live wrong and preposterously
David, I am being very careful, but it is a simple fact that tickets will only go on wider sale if Season Ticket Holders and members don't buy any additional tickets.
There is an implication in your post (and in some similar ones on the offy forum) that as a 20-year supporter of the Saints I find quite worrying.
We hear regularly (notably in the run up to the H Cup final) that we're a big club and have too many supporters for 7,500 allocations of tickets for a final.
But now we're hearing that we're not a big enough club to sell out a major Heineken Cup game 20 miles down the road (in our catchment area, I hasten to add) with our own supporters!
Which is it?
There is an implication in your post (and in some similar ones on the offy forum) that as a 20-year supporter of the Saints I find quite worrying.
We hear regularly (notably in the run up to the H Cup final) that we're a big club and have too many supporters for 7,500 allocations of tickets for a final.
But now we're hearing that we're not a big enough club to sell out a major Heineken Cup game 20 miles down the road (in our catchment area, I hasten to add) with our own supporters!
Which is it?
Oh Chris, you just don't get it do you.
Northampton Saints, not MK Saints or any other Saints. The club began in Northampton and has always played in Northampton. The majority of supporters are from Northampton and want to watch a Northampton team in Northampton.
All of the concerns posted are genuine but, the biggest worry of everyone is that the club want to play major games at MK with a view to moving there. If that was the case then would Northampton fall into your 'catchment area' ??A
You have done nothing on any site to allay supporter's concerns. This could be done in a couple of ways,
A categoric assurance through the media that this the last time this will happen other than if stipulated by competition rules.
Even better, listen to the majority of fans and return the game to the Gardens where it should be played all along - it is not too late.
Trust once lost is even harder to regain.
Northampton Saints, not MK Saints or any other Saints. The club began in Northampton and has always played in Northampton. The majority of supporters are from Northampton and want to watch a Northampton team in Northampton.
All of the concerns posted are genuine but, the biggest worry of everyone is that the club want to play major games at MK with a view to moving there. If that was the case then would Northampton fall into your 'catchment area' ??A
You have done nothing on any site to allay supporter's concerns. This could be done in a couple of ways,
A categoric assurance through the media that this the last time this will happen other than if stipulated by competition rules.
Even better, listen to the majority of fans and return the game to the Gardens where it should be played all along - it is not too late.
Trust once lost is even harder to regain.
sonofstan, I get it far more than you think. As I've said a couple of times, I was a fan of this club a lot longer before I was an employee. First game was the Pilkington Cup final and then I was a regular on the terrace from November 1991.
So please don't patronise me about this club that has been a massive part of my life for 20 years, firstly as a supporter, then season ticket holder, then matchday steward and now full-time employee.
But we are talking about two different things. You are talking about an awareness of legacy, history and so on. I was talking about the apparent questioning of our ability to fill stadiumMK for a regular season game.
Regardless of being an employee or not, I am acutely aware that the Saints - as a club - is at a crossroads. We can either look to grow sustainably (by attracting new supporters) or put some self-imposed handcuffs on that will ultimately see us not be able to increase our investment in the playing effort. Bear in mind that the salary cap is about to go up, there is a marquee player option plus the costs of everything behind the scenes will also increase.
We don't have a sugar daddy, and reading the many comments on this fact throughout the years the vast majority of people on here say that is for the best.
The commitment to expanding Franklin's Gardens remains, and we would not be doing this if there was any intention to moving away from Northampton.
But if we don't have a sugar daddy, and we impose some handcuffs on ourselves by refusing to follow a model that is proving successful across Europe, then how do we grow? Answers gratefully received!
So please don't patronise me about this club that has been a massive part of my life for 20 years, firstly as a supporter, then season ticket holder, then matchday steward and now full-time employee.
But we are talking about two different things. You are talking about an awareness of legacy, history and so on. I was talking about the apparent questioning of our ability to fill stadiumMK for a regular season game.
Regardless of being an employee or not, I am acutely aware that the Saints - as a club - is at a crossroads. We can either look to grow sustainably (by attracting new supporters) or put some self-imposed handcuffs on that will ultimately see us not be able to increase our investment in the playing effort. Bear in mind that the salary cap is about to go up, there is a marquee player option plus the costs of everything behind the scenes will also increase.
We don't have a sugar daddy, and reading the many comments on this fact throughout the years the vast majority of people on here say that is for the best.
The commitment to expanding Franklin's Gardens remains, and we would not be doing this if there was any intention to moving away from Northampton.
But if we don't have a sugar daddy, and we impose some handcuffs on ourselves by refusing to follow a model that is proving successful across Europe, then how do we grow? Answers gratefully received!
How dare you accuse me of being patronising. My and all other posters on this forum have genuine concerns which I say again you have not been able to satisfy.
It is a fact that we are a Northampton team and this is where we should play our games.
I am not unaware of the need to attract more fans so that they can drink your overpriced beer and buy the ridicuously priced merchandise but, the thought of moving any Northampton team to MK stinks now and always has done.
Moving games away from a club's proper home should never be considered.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2011:10:04:15:03:53 by sonofstan..
It is a fact that we are a Northampton team and this is where we should play our games.
I am not unaware of the need to attract more fans so that they can drink your overpriced beer and buy the ridicuously priced merchandise but, the thought of moving any Northampton team to MK stinks now and always has done.
Moving games away from a club's proper home should never be considered.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2011:10:04:15:03:53 by sonofstan..
"Oh Chris, you just don't get it, do you" - can you see where I got the tone from?
I have tried to address the concerns as best as I can, and indeed recommended the letter that has since been published on the main website and on another thread.
I have tried to address the concerns as best as I can, and indeed recommended the letter that has since been published on the main website and on another thread.
Sorry, only registered users may post in this forum.
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- Weekend Rugby 15th - 17th May 2026