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DARLINGTON - SPENDING A PENNEY 21-8-08
Let's see if the unbeaten start to the season has enticed a few more fans back to the Arena this Saturday. I certainly hope so.
On Saturday's show, I made a plea for people to get in touch with me to tell me why they aren't going to the Arena any more. I did this on the back of crowds that are circa 900 lower than last season.
What was the response? Yes, you've guessed it!! It was pathetic.
Even the one usually vociferous voice who has been sending me emails galore on why he no longer goes to games refused to participate. He had initially agreed to voice his opinions on air but when we rang him at home, he was heard to mutter "can't be arsed" in the background. Well that sums it up, doesn't it?!
I noticed on the messageboards that Darlo Pete had poked a jibe at me for my statement last season that Dave Penney would not be around for the start of this campaign.
I am delighted to have been proved wrong Pete but watch this space. I am sure that when some teams in higher divisions decide to change their managers then DP will be high on their wanted lists.
I am sure that you, like I, will have noticed a frustration in his interviews this season.
The smaller budget and smaller squad is obviously something that he is not too happy about. It all stems from the attendances at the Arena though and I don't blame the Chairman for cutting back. I know that you fans are devoted to your club but would you keep throwing money away?
Recently, I have spoken to a few people who are based in Darlo but who also go the Riverside to watch the Boro.
On many occasions in the past, people like this have actually gone to both clubs. I know that when I was a kid, I often went to Darlo when Boro were away.
Nowadays, many don't do this because of the cost of going to matches.
A couple of seasons ago I mentioned the subject to Jon Sotnick who approached the Boro. However, their Commercial Manager at the time was not keen to explore possibilities of season ticket holders at either club being able to buy match day tickets at the other club at preferential rates. But why not?
I know that some of you would not be seen dead at Boro or Sunderland but I am sure during the course of a season, the odd game might appeal.
Likewise, and more importantly, if Darlo based fans of other clubs could be enticed to the Arena then why not try it?
Immediately I can hear many problems and issues being raised but I am only trying to rack my brain and come up with some solutions to get more people into the ground. Even if only fifty more came, it's a start.
I am now three weeks into my stint at Alpha Radio and I have been pleased with the initial reaction of fans.
However, I want more Darlo supporters to ring the show. So come on give me a call, even if it's only to have a pop at the ref.
Please remember that if you missed my show, the highlights are available on the podcast by clicking here.
On Saturday lunchtime, we will hear from the managers before the day's games.
I will also have tickets to give away for Boro v Stoke City on 30/08, a signed copy of Gary Pallister's autobiography 'Pally' and the chance to win meals at the Arena's excellent Sunday carvery and also at Jo Rigatonis.
The questions will be as follows:
For Boro v Stoke City:
Stoke now play at the Britannia Stadium but what was the name of their old ground?
For a signed copy of "PALLY":
Which current Premier League manager did Pally form and excellent centre back pairing for Manchester United with?
For Jeff's Meat and Two Veg to win a Carvery at the Darlington Arena:
Which team scored the first goal of the Premier League season last Saturday?
a) Arsenal
b) West Brom
c) Bolton Wanderers
Also on The Jeff Winter Football Phone-In, for your chance to win a main course meal for two at a Jo Rigatonis of your choice, tune in from 6-7 every Saturday on Alpha 103.2 and work out the music link to a footballing matter.
To enter either:
1) Ring 01325 25 55 55 during the show
2) Text 81800 and type "goal", leave a space then give your answer and name
3) Email Jeff at Alpha Radio.
Keep up to date with all of my columns on my website.
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