Quote Originally Posted by WTF11 View Post
"The decision to implement the 'new ticketing system' was aimed at improving stadium security, speeding up entry, tackling ticket touting & reducing club's carbon footprint"

Err 100% gold-platted bollox! The new system reduces the cost of the channel, as it focuses on the responsibility of the customer to do what was previously the responsibility of the provider (I KNOW this believe me). Security isn't enhanced by this type of system, speed of entry is entirely dependent upon the capability of the barcode reading technology (QR codes are far more effective that 2d barcodes currently used by most systems), and the carbon footprint debate depends on how much it costs to produce and replace the existing services (bit like is a new electric vehicle less environmentally damaging than a 30 year old petrol vehicle?).

More "woke" sh1t justifying the introduction of systems that make it easier for the club, not necessarily better for the supporter, how unusual.
Why I complain ?
Well, I only complain when I feel there is a significant gap between an expectation & reality, football related as well, possibly why I campaigned for Disabled football supporters for several years raising issues rather than just 'scoffing' to folks who'd accept poor standards yet did nothing about it.

PL have a unanimous price level cap (£30) for away fans which will be reviewed in 2025, when it will have been in place for nine seasons thanks to fan pressure groups.

All PL clubs recognise the crucial importance of supporters in generating the best possible safe 'atmosphere at matches' & acknowledge the additional travel costs often involved when following a team away from home.

FA Cup has no such price cap in place & so does not acknowledge additional costs.
So an 'away fan' is not really an appropriate 'term' nowadays as supporters of Leeds Utd as an example come from all over the place in huge number using all mode of transport costs which often is paid up front, so can empty ones pockets very quickly.

Obviously your sentiments are agreed by most & obviously my current ST will be used by those currently approved & validated by the club under the specified scheme/terms for its use regardless - so yes, some fans out there will pay regardless of cost or inconvenience in these hard times, sadly not all genuine fans may I add.

Historically FA Cup away trips provide some of the greatest memories for travelling supporters.The 3,000 Stevenage fans that travelled to Villa Park will never forget their dramatic late third round win against Aston Villa - they are special trips for all travelling fans & a change from the week in League fixtures, just saying like.

Comments relating to our League 1 days of 2007/10 noted but I recall my often hefty payments for tickets standing on open terraces, sharing men's loo's with the only refreshments being unhygienic burger stalls at most away venues, back then ER offered far more to its visitors, again just saying like.

Of an age were I treasure my paper 'tickets-collections' going back to 1995 then I for one think it's a sad day now they've stopped but I understand why in the broader spectrum.