FA Cup ticket figure takes a Hammering
BIRMINGHAM City fans have been left disappointed by the news that Blues will take 5,200 supporters to West Ham United for their FA Cup third round tie next month.
Blues travel to the London Stadium on Saturday, January 5, for a fixture selected for overseas broadcasting. It means a 12.30pm kick-off, which initially threw a spanner into the works of many Bluenoses planning a day out in the capital.
This further update, that Blues will have a little over 5,000 there – as opposed to the 15 per cent of the overall capacity that away sides in the FA Cup can be allocated – is a further blow to many hoping to purchase a ticket. The 15 per cent suggested a notional figure of 9,900 Bluenoses might have descended on London, but under police advice and the potential problems caused by travel arrangements, a figure of 5,200 has been agreed.
Blues fans took to social media to express their views.
Andrew Facer: We would sell the whole 15% if we would have been allowed it... Without doubt!
Racing_James: Shocking from @ WestHamUtd @karren_brady could’ve added another 50% minimum on top of that and we would’ve sold out. Shameful.
Sean Butler: Last time West Ham came to the blues for a cup tie they got 15% and that was midweek! What’s the point in the entitlement rule if it’s not used
BCFC Report: ‘Safety Advisory Group’ didn’t like the idea of 9,900 Blues in London then.
Adam Knight: Knew we would never get the full percentage that we could have had, still be class tho
Jake Darbyshire: It will be the first time this stadium will have an atmosphere!
Steven Edwards: 5,000 is probably enough with the early kick off time, London prices and live streaming abroad.