JRM

Probably treating it like a counter terrorism operation

Yeah it's nonsense, classic tactics by talking up the issue they've created an impression there's a serious problem that needs clamping down on, the stewards have been briefed on being tough like their trial run at the pre season games throwing people out for standing , I know a few season ticket holders in those blocks who have given up their tickets can't be doing with the hassle. Will probably be a ratio of 1 steward per fan in those blocks as so few fans have tickets.

Virtually every away game I've been to the stewards / police are on away fan side of the segregation, generally use the fans alone. St Mary's on the other hand has stewards police on home fan side all too willing to go in and hassle someone for a few gestures whereas they turn a blind eye to the away fans happy to let them crack on. Safety officer is probably a skate.

At least we won't need to fake injuries for a team catch up on 70 mins, game will be stopped for water breaks like in those hot world Cup games

The temp might not change much but angle of the sun does, most of the ground would be in the shade, but I agree not worth changing this close to the game. Leeds end will all have their shirts off will look like they did at Bournemouth 1990 carnage

Itchen stand and front half of the Northam will be in the sun most of the game, Spurs was bad, half time someone was asking for a free cup of water as didn't want to buy a bottle , stadium should be handing it out in those conditions

Hopefully we can keep it tight at the back and nick a 1-0, unlikely I know. The game has been on general sale for a while, still tickets left, a mate of a mate who is southern based Leeds fan is going in the home end, got a feeling there will be plenty more of them.

Very strong , plus a proper keeper behind them, should help them grind out some low scoring results

I agree, he doesn't seem very vocal either, perhaps not surprising for a youngster.

"Saints once again proved they are prone to concede points from a winning position " I bottled it with a fiver but my mate got £50 on spurs evens when we were 1-0 up , nice pay out

That's it really. Lost any enthusiasm I had to do any more aways.

#Ralph-Out. Absolute mess, terrible run , time to go

Bit odd, but quickest way home to Winchester probably

Ralph Out

Heading up early this morning on the train, have been talking to a Fulham fan, interesting to get perspective they definitely see us as a relegation rival expecting us to struggle, seems to be reflected in a number of pundits tipping us for the drop. Time will tell but expectations are low.

we have Jan Valery ready and waiting, plus Jack Stephens and JWP can fill in

Are we back in the running for the net spend trophy?

Maybe all 22 players could point at the sun to highlight climate change ?

I'll miss my weekly opportunity to pay my respects to the great Georgy Floyd

There's only 10 home league games aren't there? Guess that explains partly the low cost

Theo Walcott has been a big disappointment hasn't he.

Don't forget the Mexican wave as well

This could be a unintended consequence, men's football stays for the lads who like a booze and rowdy atmosphere, women's football provides an outlet for those like me who prefer a more friendly pop concert type atmosphere https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-11067411/DOMINIC-KING-atmosphere-Englands-Euro-2022-final-win-Germany-restored-faith.html

I think they have an opportunity with the cost of living crisis, a day out at the football to watch Saints girls for a family can be done a hell of a lot cheaper than going to watch the men. If your kids want to go to a game and you're watching the pennies the price might make the choice for you.

I think some of that has to be taken with a pinch of salt. They choose to have games at Leigh sports Village and Man Citys academy stadium as those grounds were deemed big enough for crowds expected, it made sense as well using Rotherham for group stages (Not full) but then use the bigger Sheff Utd ground for the semi. I'm pleased St Mary's was used and the England game was a great occasion, but for the other two fixtures ground was 1/3rd full