Saint Fan CaM

At last, some common sense!

If your 'scheme' is totally independant of the club - i.e. the club have nothing to do with the scheme and no liability to costs - why can't these fans just go get on a similar credit scheme independantly??? If it is because they do not have the money to do so, then they should not be applying for credit in the 1st place surely? IF there was any kind of link between the club and Zebra or whoever, then there will be administration costs to the club at least.

Steve, I accept that there are a small minority of people that are affected adversely by the decision. That's life and it's tough, but as you and other's have pointed out the credit crunch has affected many organisations and individuals and action is often painful for someone in the food chain. In terms of the 40% you quote, I could argue then that 60% affected by the club's decision could therefore be eligible for a credit card?! The clubs decision to remove the 0% installments was based clearly on last seasons costs (I've heard £40-£50k mentioned). I do agree that perhaps the club could have looked at other options, however do we really think that Nicola (a highly respected financier handling £millions) has not given all reasonable thought to the matter? Even taking up the option of an independant credit company (if there is one available) will cost the club something in administration I would suspect - if that's say £10k/year for example and that's what's needed to balance the books, then it's a cost worth saving if the club is being run within it's means. Or perhaps NC should sack a junior groundsman instead?

An excellent balanced post. I would take issue with just one small part however - do we really know that a sizeable section of the fanbase are actually very concerned about the change in credit arrangements? As an example, I have always used the option of installments, but have also had the foresight to save early so I can still pay up-front. That's called taking responsibility. If I had not done this, then yes I would be a bit miffed that the club had taken away the option, but could only really blame MYSELF for relying on the good-will of the club. In summary, I think there are more people like me than those who are left without any method of payment. Fans just need to adjust and it will take some longer than others I guess (particularly those that are a little prone to hysterics on here! lol).

And this is person who expects all other posters to debate matters in a civil manner?!?! Not sure why you feel the need to get personal, however I think a look in the mirror would be wise before accusing others of the above - after you've wiped the spittle off it of course. If you have the funds to pay up front why don't you? Is it because you feel you need to make a point about something to big yourself up on an internet forum? Do you want to form an army of protestors to storm SMS? Err, what exactly is your plan - not attend games in protest? The most economic option is not to buy any ticket thus not spend any money. I don't actually believe there are too many that will exercise that option frankly and even the low % disgruntled now will be flocking back when we win the league, because that's the nature of the things.

There - fixed it for you.

This debate has been going on for a week now. In this time an application for a 0% credit card would have been accepted and processed. I suspect a large proportion of the people affected by the change in credit plans by the club would be OK getting approval on a card and there's still plenty of time to get an ST. If you don't think you would get approval for credit, why do you think the club should fund a credit risk for a very small minority of fans? It strikes me that there are some people who expect everything in life to be gifted to them on a plate without taking any responsibility. Even if that analysis is considered harsh, just take it on the chin like men and next season start saving early for the following season - i.e. start putting £60-£70/month away in Oct./Nov./Feb./Mar./Apr./May - miss out Xmas period.

OK, so what you're saying is... stop f-ing complaining, b1tching and moaning about the club, because people need to take responsible control of their own finances and just need to find other credit options in the expectation that this season is going to be even better than last season? Surely it's not that simple is it?

Wonder if this year they'll take the time to dig up the Pimpley shirt from under the centre circle and the Pimpley goalie gloves allegedly buried under the goal mouth in front the Northam? Nah, I didn't believe that b0ll0x either.

You must be one of the lucky ones because I've not seen this years charter yet. Don't shout too loudly - everyone will want one. You are privelaged and clearly the club loves you. LMFAO.

Another pointless, stupid thread.

You're either a massive WUM or a complete and utter dipstick. Or both. You and anyone who agrees with your deluded POV don't deserve a decent football club to support. You'll not be crying like a girl on here when we gain auto promotion eh? No, you'll be the best supporter ever then.

Haha. I had the same vision when I saw the OP title. Was imagining the groundsmen painting running track lines around the pitch! lol

Fair play...mixed him with someone else. Still, a pretty good acquisition it would seem.

Wow. Another steal from future ccc competitor. Better than Barnie?

This guy must have something about him? Just had a season in L2 with Bury. http://www.givemefootball.com/transfer-details?player=18460&playerID=9459

I believe it's in the region of £1200 per match?

I think you will find that for a 23 yr old, the prospect of being at Saints in a promotion to CCC year will be enough of an incentive, especially if he gets a better salary deal. Being understudy to Harding will not be a problem to a professional IMO. Add to this the fact that IF Calderon signs, but gets injured at some stage, then Harding can move to RB and Dickson can go LB. Mills is understudy. Options looking very good across the back four. Looking at it another way, if he's to play LM what's going to happen to Lallana and Puncheon - will they both be dropped? I don't think so, although this might be an indicator that AP wants Lallana on the right and Antonio is not coming back to us.

I think you'll find Huddersfield could well be the thorn in our side this year - again. We do not need to fear any of the relegated teams. Notts County might have something about them as they were on a roll at the end of the season, but then again the step-up might be a step too far. I think the key will be not to be complacent against any side...win everything...and attempt to maintain consistency of line-up wherever possible. Focus on the league - leave the cup competitions to the reserves.

His friends call him Mark. Exclamation Mark. [sorry]

RIP Mary Bates - you and Ted were key to Saints history and I feel sure your memory will live long alongside that of Ted's. A plaque on Ted's statue plinth might be appropriate to recognise the dual role you both played perhaps.

Ordered mine on-line today no problems whatsoever. Fantastic - can't wait for season to start - it's gonna be a cracker. What is there to moan about? Nothing IMHO. With a bit of luck the chavs and neanderthals will not be able to afford a ticket leaving just civilised decent supporters to cheer on the team and management.

Instead of getting all lathered up over this, why not check out Pompey's pricing structure? If it's cheaper and they have a payment plan, then you have an option right? If however, you wish to support a well run, financially sound football club that's going places then I would suggest Saints is the club for you. Which in turn means you've really got little cause to complain fella. Get with the program.

What he said, with one exception. I believe we are starting a journey that will see this club rise to heights NEVER previously seen both in terms of success on the pitch AND in terms of professional, long-term investment in infrastructure. In 10 years I believe Saints will be competing in the top 6 of the Prem consistently, will be the envy of even the 'top' clubs and we will have been lucky enough to have witnessed the re-birth. Stick with the program. Keep your patience people - there are some very good times ahead.

Don't know if anyone else has noticed, but the list of games shown when you buy your ST on-line shows a play-off game is included in the deal!!! Before anyone gets excited however, it would appear this is an error as there are still only 23 games listed, so this must be in place of a regular league game???