- Rugby bosses will introduce away sections at Gallagher Premiership matches
- Designated sections for away fans will add to the atmosphere and grow rugby
- It will be important for home clubs to embrace it fully and welcome away fans
It is fantastic to see English rugby bosses thinking outside the box.
For too long the game has done the same things on repeat and there has been an obvious need for change. The financial problems experienced by clubs and the demise of Worcester, Wasps and London Irish have shown exactly that.
I can only see positives by having designated sections for away rugby fans in matches.
It will certainly add to the atmosphere and that, ultimately, is what it’s all about. It helps sell the product and grow rugby’s appeal.
Such a situation has long been a status quo in football, but that has predominantly been done to avoid clashes with rival fans.
Gallagher Premiership rugby clubs are set to introduce ‘away fans sections’ at matches
Sitting in an away block with fellow supporters would help to create a feeling of attachment
That is not the reason for this move in rugby. It is being done for positive, not negative, reasons. And that is to be applauded.
The upsides far outweigh the downsides. In fact, I don’t see any downsides.
If I was an away fan, sitting in one block with my fellow supporters would certainly appeal. It adds to the sense of comradeship and would help create a feeling of attachment.
If this is brought in, it’s important the home clubs embrace it fully.
There is no point putting the away fans in the worst part of the ground. The opposite should happen. They should be welcomed in style and given great seats with good access to food and drink facilities.
I hope to see this implemented soon and more innovative thinking to come!
