Credit Crunch partly effects Away Support

It's not only Hereford United who are feeling the effects of the credit crunch. Bristol City, for example, have noticed a sharp drop in away support. But, like Hereford, the club's form is also a factor.

Last year the Bulls took around 1200 to the cup game at Elland Road, this year less than 800 made the trip for a League game.

Likewise Bristol's support at Bramwell Lane. Last year they took 2,000, this year less than 700.

Sean Donnelly is a Bristol City supporter who is also a Landlord.

"We run coaches for away games whenever possible and it's becoming a real struggle. Whereas we would be over-subscribed for a 52-seater coach last season, we are now finding it hard to fill a 32-seater," Donnelly told the Bristol press.

"Changed kick-off times don't help and the fact that some games, like Southampton and Preston, are live on Sky is also putting people off.

"But that is not the reason most City fans who come into the pub are giving for staying away. Of course, the credit crunch is having an impact and the average working man has less money in his pocket at the end of the week. But most are refusing to travel or picking their games carefully because of the way the team is playing.

"Supporters want to be entertained and to think they're getting value for money. They also have to believe their team has a realistic chance of getting a result.

"I know very few fans who thought we would win at Sheffield and that's why so few went.

"If you take in the cost of petrol or coach travel and then add on the price of a ticket, you're looking at at least £70. That's before you've even bought a programme, had a drink or paid for anything to eat.

"When the team is doing well and playing attractive football, like they were last season, you will find that supporters always find the money to travel."

City chairman Steve Lansdown also commented.

"This is a problem for every club and something we need to be aware of.

"We've all noticed a fall in the number of away fans watching games and we realise football is expensive and that the recession will bite if it's not biting already."

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