Dear Shakers,
As we prepare for our upcoming Emirates FA Cup replay against Stalybridge Celtic, we would like to update supporters on a key operational decision regarding the stadium layout for this fixture.
After careful consideration and discussions with our operations team, the club made the decision following yesterday’s 1-1 draw at Bower Fold not to open the South Stand for this match.
This decision had been based on several important factors:
- Expected Attendance: Based on previous ticket sales data and projected turnout, the anticipated crowd can be comfortably and safely accommodated within the Main Stand. As a result, opening the South Stand would not be a necessary or efficient use of resources for this particular game.
- Operational Costs: Opening an additional stand significantly increases matchday costs, including stewarding, security, catering, and cleaning. In the context of early-round cup fixtures—where revenues are more modest—it is vital we manage these costs responsibly to protect the club’s sustainability.
The costs of operating a stadium the size of Gigg Lane are high, and where attendances are expected to be low, opening multiple stands can cost the Club money, especially during Tuesday night fixtures where attendances are historically 28%-30% lower than Saturday fixtures, and FA Cup fixtures that previously have attracted almost 50% lower crowds than league fixtures.
As the changing rooms and main entrances to Gigg Lane are situated in the Main Stand, that section of the ground has to be open so that matches can take place, so closing the other stands in the ground will always come first in these situations.
However, having received feedback from the fan base regarding their preference to sit in the South Stand, the club have reviewed the decision, and on this occasion, the South Stand WILL be open for Tuesday’s replay against Stalybridge Celtic. Anybody that has purchased for the Main Stand will be able to use their ticket for entry to the South Stand should they wish.
We understand that some supporters prefer specific areas of the stadium, and this may cause some inconvenience during fixtures where it is deemed not viable to open the South Stand. However, we hope you appreciate the reasoning behind the original decision and our commitment to balancing supporter experience with financial prudence.
You have spoken, and we have listened, and it’s over to you, our loyal fan base, to pack the stands on Tuesday. Your continued support makes all the difference. Let’s get behind the lads as they look to progress to the next round of the cup!
Up the Shakers!