In a time of uncertainty and mid-lockdown, what would surprise you most from your club? My big surprise arrived today with the season ticket announcement.
Ipswich owner Marcus Evans (reported in the EADT) begins his letter thanking everyone for their support of the NHS whilst also highlighting the uncertainty of football returning. However, he then suggests that freezing ticket prices for early purchasers is a good thing and if football is not there to watch in person, the behind-closed-doors screening via the Internet will be part of your season ticket.
There will be additional bonuses such as free cup games (if there are cup games) and bonus free tickets for family and friends when attending is possible. Mr Evans highlights the 70% of season ticket holders who pay via an instalment scheme, and almost hints that the 12 monthly payments would go unnoticed.
Whilst I understand the club needs financial commitment, I can’t help but feel this is ill-timed. The Suffolk workforce is sitting at home, the gas bills and mortgages taking priority ahead of the season ticket.
Ipswich as a fan base is a travelling mass with Sir Bobby Robson once highlighting the large part of the crowd travel from wider Suffolk, and further. This means a season ticket isn’t just a ticket to the match and a walk but a journey every time.
I can’t wait to return to football, and I understand it has to be done. Yet, I don’t feel today, with no firm plan for the remainder of this season in place, was quite the timing required.
