Atmosphere

[Cookiehibs]

Is it just me or is the atmosphere at Easter road these days just so flat. I was sitting in the east tonight and there was such a lack of singing and general atmosphere created. I understand there wasn’t a great deal to cheer about tonight but you just had to look at the away end and they were noisy all night

[Coco Bryce]

That's the quietest I've heard a Rangers away support in years.

[HendoDelivered]

Was a pretty poor home support as well tbf. FF looked deserted.

[Magpie]

It’s lost it’s buzz since the Lennon days for sure. I wish we could make ER a fortress but it’s a long way away.

[Nicho87]

Nothing to do with the results and football at all some will tell you

[Scottie]

Performances on the pitch dictate the noise from the stands. Has always been the case. It's all a bit meh atm unfortunately.

[lord bunberry]

That's the quietest I've heard a Rangers away support in years.
I can only assume you’re in an area of the stadium where the sound doesn’t carry well because the noise they made was unbelievable. I hate to admit it but they were really loud all game. I’m in the west lower up near the away end and they were the noisiest away fans this season.

[Coco Bryce]

I can only assume you’re in an area of the stadium where the sound doesn’t carry well because the noise they made was unbelievable. I hate to admit it but they were really loud all game. I’m in the west lower up near the away end and they were the noisiest away fans this season.

I was right next to them. There was spells when they were completely silent.

[green day]

I can only assume you’re in an area of the stadium where the sound doesn’t carry well because the noise they made was unbelievable. I hate to admit it but they were really loud all game. I’m in the west lower up near the away end and they were the noisiest away fans this season.

I agree, I am West Upper at the same end - shame so many of their songs are about hating catholics or the IRA though......................tossers.

[Tommy75]

The singing section should be in the FF lower or middle of the East.

That said, while Rangers fans were quite loud you tend to find away supporters are more up for it when it comes to singing and making noise.

[lord bunberry]

I was right next to them. There was spells when they were completely silent.
The noise did die down for a spell but when they got going it was pretty loud.

[Cookiehibs]

I noticed there were times when songs would start and fade out before they got started. It shouldn’t take for the team to nearly score or score for the crowd to get going. It would be great if going to Easter road was like a real event/party. I think I’m just a bit deflated after seeing a rangers team that were really there for the taking tonight and we went out with a bit of a damp squib

[Pagan Hibernia]

The singing section should be in the FF lower or middle of the East.

That said, while Rangers fans were quite loud you tend to find away supporters are more up for it when it comes to singing and making noise.

we’ll still be having the FF lower debate ten years from now because nothing will have changed sadly.

and yeah, tbh away fans should always be louder than the home support.

[lord bunberry]

I agree, I am West Upper at the same end - shame so many of their songs are about hating catholics or the IRA though......................tossers.
The bit I don’t understand and never will is why they do it. They had loads of other songs, some of which were really clever, the abba one is still going round my head. Why do they need to sing about all that pish.

[lord bunberry]

we’ll still be having the FF lower debate ten years from now because nothing will have changed sadly.

and yeah, tbh away fans should always be louder than the home support.
I genuinely don’t think we will, I think there will be a change for next season. Having that end so empty every week isn’t to anyones benefit and the new guy seems receptive to new ideas. Fingers crossed.

[Stuart93]

I think it all comes down to how things are going on the park & how we’re playing.

I’m not turning this into a JR bashing thread, well it’s not my intention, but I think if hibs are playing entertaining football and getting wins along with it, fans will turn up and the atmosphere will be better naturally. There’s obviously going to be other factors at play just now with coronavirus still a concern & i think the pricing is completely OTT for walk ups whilst understanding the need for ST holders getting their values worth.

In saying that, I think of the Lennon days at ER for the bigger games and I’m hard pushed to think of a time when the fans got behind the team more than they did then. In my lifetime anyway.

[The Captain....]

The attendances must be concerning for the owner, board. Stands half empty..maybe time to look again at pricing? Home games are like a morgue.

Other than that we never really play as well at home as we do away. I don't agree that we're dull to watch but plenty seem to hold that opinion and are finding reasons not to go to ER.

[lord bunberry]

I think it all comes down to how things are going on the park & how we’re playing.

I’m not turning this into a JR bashing thread, well it’s not my intention, but I think if hibs are playing entertaining football and getting wins along with it, fans will turn up and the atmosphere will be better naturally.

In saying that, I think of the Lennon days at ER for the bigger games and I’m hard pushed to think of a time when the fans got behind the team more than they did then. In my lifetime anyway.
I think one of the main problems are that most of our best performances seem to come away from home.

[Pagan Hibernia]

I genuinely don’t think we will, I think there will be a change for next season. Having that end so empty every week isn’t to anyones benefit and the new guy seems receptive to new ideas. Fingers crossed.

I really hope you’re right. It needs to be sorted. Ridiculous that our home end is deserted for every game when we have a singing section that would be perfect for it.

[Stuart93]

I think one of the main problems are that most of our best performances seem to come away from home.

Aye that’s it. I also think the atmosphere at an away day is naturally better for most teams.

Like another poster has said, we need to improve on our record at home

[Hibi]

I really hope you’re right. It needs to be sorted. Ridiculous that our home end is deserted for every game when we have a singing section that would be perfect for it.

Agreed. Something needs to change as it’s really poor.

[lord bunberry]

Aye that’s it. I also think the atmosphere at an away day is naturally better for most teams.

Like another poster has said, we need to improve on our record at home
Absolute. We got away with having an average home record last season as there wasn’t any fans, but it needs to improve now the fans are back. I wouldn’t criticise him for tonight as I thought we got the tactics right, but against the lesser teams he needs to have a more attacking frame of mind.

[matty_f]

Was a pretty poor home support as well tbf. FF looked deserted.

Home support was *****.

[Pretty Boy]

Hibs support was very quiet tonight. A couple of bursts but largely quiet. Rangers support was what a Rangers away support is.

Even allowing for the fact away supports are generally more raucous than their home counterparts I think it's fair to say something is missing at ER currently. Both in terms of numbers and atmosphere from those who are there.

[BS44]

Nothing to do with the results and football at all some will tell you

Negative ****ers like you really need to give it a rest if you've not got anything worthwhile to add.

How was the result and football at Hampden for you the other week?

[B.H.F.C]

Hibs support was very quiet tonight. A couple of bursts but largely quiet. Rangers support was what a Rangers away support is.

Even allowing for the fact away supports are generally more raucous than their home counterparts I think it's fair to say something is missing at ER currently. Both in terms of numbers and atmosphere from those who are there.

The numbers thing is definitely an issue. It’s quite dispiriting when you walk in to the ground and see the number of empty seats for a big game like that. Number of season ticket seats next to me empty again.

[Nakedmanoncrack]

I genuinely don’t think we will, I think there will be a change for next season. Having that end so empty every week isn’t to anyones benefit and the new guy seems receptive to new ideas. Fingers crossed.

If you move the singing section to FF lower you just move the empty seats elsewhere, probably increasing them in number. Family section is always going to have absent ST holders for midweek ***ture against them.

[BoomtownHibees]

Pricing definitely an issue however what’s more concerning is the volume of season ticket holders who are staying away

[lord bunberry]

If you move the singing section to FF lower you just move the empty seats elsewhere, probably increasing them in number. Family section is always going to have absent ST holders for midweek ***ture against them.
That’s true but it won’t be as visible. Personally I’d have it in the south and give priority tickets for category A games in other parts of the stadium. If people don’t want to attend big games against certain teams they won’t have to as their season ticket wouldn’t cover those games.

[mcohibs]

£35 a ticket. Hibs need to realise that getting more bums on seats with lower pricing generates an atmosphere that can actually help the team

[Nakedmanoncrack]

That’s true but it won’t be as visible. Personally I’d have it in the south and give priority tickets for category A games in other parts of the stadium. If people don’t want to attend big games against certain teams they won’t have to as their season ticket wouldn’t cover those games.

That would only lead to more empty seats unfortunately. I'm in the FF Lower and wish it was busier, but I certainly don't want my ST downgraded to Cat B only.

[WeeRussell]

Couldn’t make it tonight but I commented that we seemed quite quiet going by the tv coverage.

Not a criticism (I was sat in a warm house as opposed to freezing my baws off) just an observation.

[lord bunberry]

That would only lead to more empty seats unfortunately. I'm in the FF Lower and wish it was busier, but I certainly don't want my ST downgraded to Cat B only.
I’m not sure how it would lead to more empty seats as you’d be taking up seats that are already empty. Obviously folk moving from other parts into the FF would leave empty seats but it wouldn’t create more. I understand the point about not wanting to downgrade your season ticket, but it could be an option to have cat A and you move to the East or West for the big games, others might prefer the cat B option.

[Sir David Gray]

The home support was really poor, lots of empty seats and not a lot of noise generated.

Disappointing.

[B.H.F.C]

I thought tonight was a real chance to beat them the way it went.

Whilst I think we were too cautious I wonder if the lack of crowd and atmosphere contributes to that as well. Would we be braver if the crowd was there really pushing the team on maybe. Don’t know the answer obviously but it’s definitely a support that is lacking something at the moment.

[TelaStella]

What if we weren’t solely reliant on one particular end or group for this atmosphere but split the responsibility between two: being the North and East. It’s been very common in Europe for years where clubs have not just one but two, three or more ultras groups setting up camp across their respective grounds. Not working in competition but harmony.

Celtic for the last few seasons have seen a split within their more fanatical ‘North Curve’ element with the Bhoys group Establishing themselves in the Jock Stein, across from the Green Brigade still in their traditional Section 111. Working together this helped carry and build atmosphere to an area of the stadium seriously underperforming prior.

A similar model wouldn’t go a miss at Easter Road or at least be trialled, stretching from the FF to the end of the East. I’m thrilled to of seen the emergence of Block 7 so soon after the retirement of S‘1875 but experience or perhaps in their case an obvious lack of tells me they won’t be the guys to take our atmosphere to the next stage or even back to what it used to be. An older, more practiced group to coincide along with them could definitely do the ground some favours. Plenty candidates to more than fit that bill.


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[Jones28]

Something needs a shake up, and it’s got a lot to do with the FF stand being half full at best.

Oh aye, and the £35 price tag. Sorry Hibs but I will not be attending as many games as I’d like to if for that money. I’ll get a season ticket when the kids are older and can maybe come along but I can’t afford to walk up at that price.

There’s a cup final in 3 weeks that have tickets the same price, that’s ridiculous.

[Shrekko]

Nothing to do with the results and football at all some will tell you

So you think that fans shouldn't try to generate atmosphere unless the team is already on top or in the lead?

Often hear this excuse that it's the team making the fans quiet because football isn't entertaining enough etc., and I believe it's codswallop. Do we need the team to blow our socks off before we start making noise in a derby? No, is the answer.

The truth is that if the team were coming out to cacophony of noise and colour we'd probably get exactly what we wanted in terms of performance.

Aren't we all meant to be in it together?

[Mikey_1875]

Very poor all round and definitely something lacking. It’s probably a combination of many factors but the attendances must be a real concern for the board.

I wasn’t overly convinced at first but a singing/standing section in the FF lower needs trialled at least. Another idea although it won’t be a popular one but I’d honestly consider closing the FF upper to STs and only opening it for games when the demand is there. It would fill a good chunk of the gaps and possibly help the atmosphere along with everyone being more enclosed.

[lord bunberry]

So you think that fans shouldn't try to generate atmosphere unless the team is already on top or in the lead?

Often hear this excuse that it's the team making the fans quiet because football isn't entertaining enough etc., and I believe it's codswallop. Do we need the team to blow our socks off before we start making noise in a derby? No, is the answer.

The truth is that if the team were coming out to cacophony of noise and colour we'd probably get exactly what we wanted in terms of performance.

Aren't we all meant to be in it together?
:top marksThere’s too many fans making excuses these days. Maybe we should sack Ross and come the end of the season we can generate a great atmosphere in the playoff games. That win away at Hamilton in the playoffs is the stuff of legend, terry butcher going mental at full time, what could possibly go wrong…..

[LancashireHibby]

I agree, I am West Upper at the same end - shame so many of their songs are about hating catholics or the IRA though......................tossers.
Unfortunately far too many of the songs from our fans were about the IRA as well. Sadly inevitable I suppose but I always like to think that we’re better than that.

(Sat on first few rows of section 44)

[LancashireHibby]

What if we weren’t solely reliant on one particular end or group for this atmosphere but split the responsibility between two: being the North and East. It’s been very common in Europe for years where clubs have not just one but two, three or more ultras groups setting up camp across their respective grounds. Not working in competition but harmony.

Celtic for the last few seasons have seen a split within their more fanatical ‘North Curve’ element with the Bhoys group Establishing themselves in the Jock Stein, across from the Green Brigade still in their traditional Section 111. Working together this helped carry and build atmosphere to an area of the stadium seriously underperforming prior.

A similar model wouldn’t go a miss at Easter Road or at least be trialled, stretching from the FF to the end of the East. I’m thrilled to of seen the emergence of Block 7 so soon after the retirement of S‘1875 but experience or perhaps in their case an obvious lack of tells me they won’t be the guys to take our atmosphere to the next stage or even back to what it used to be. An older, more practiced group to coincide along with them could definitely do the ground some favours. Plenty candidates to more than fit that bill.


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To be perfectly honest I think ever since the day of S43 it’s created a bit of an ‘us and them’ that was never a thing with the old East Terrace (and that’s amidst recognising the massive positive effect Sect43 had in galvanising the atmosphere in the dark days under Butcher)

[007]

Very poor all round and definitely something lacking. It’s probably a combination of many factors but the attendances must be a real concern for the board.

I wasn’t overly convinced at first but a singing/standing section in the FF lower needs trialled at least. Another idea although it won’t be a popular one but I’d honestly consider closing the FF upper to STs and only opening it for games when the demand is there. It would fill a good chunk of the gaps and possibly help the atmosphere along with everyone being more enclosed.

Closing the FF Upper to season tickets sounds like a terrible idea. There'll be ST holders that'll have sat there for years and they'd be asked to relocate to worse seats just to fill in some gaps elsewhere. To make matters worse for them, their preferred seats would then be empty. Would probably get a fair number deciding not to bother renewing so would actually end up having a negative effect on the attendances.

[LancashireHibby]

Closing the FF Upper to season tickets sounds like a terrible idea. There'll be ST holders that'll have sat there for years and they'd be asked to relocate to worse seats just to fill in some gaps elsewhere. To make matters worse for them, their preferred seats would then be empty. Would probably get a fair number deciding not to bother renewing so would actually end up having a negative effect on the attendances.
Plenty of sums to be done (I’ve done similar at my work) but I’d be doing some analysis on ticket v attendance for Category A games and going from there. Probably less of an effect for Cat A games v Cat B tbh but that can be built in to season tickets. A night like tonight is a bit of a perfect storm in terms of midweek game against one of the medieval clubs.

[NAE NOOKIE]

If you move the singing section to FF lower you just move the empty seats elsewhere, probably increasing them in number. Family section is always going to have absent ST holders for midweek ***ture against them.

Perhaps you do move the empty seats elsewhere, but at least they wont be in the most highly visible part of the stadium. The midweek / school night theory isn't really holding water any more either, it doesn't seem to matter when we play or who it's against the FF lower is never more than half full and sometimes even less than that, even though it's supposed to be mostly sold out for season tickets and that's been the case for years. If these folk aren't going to turn up half the time it would be better for all concerned if their absence wasn't so bloody obvious.

I am not against the boards off field efforts to make the club more interesting like big screens, vegan food kiosks promoting LBGTQ fan groups, solar panels on the east roof etc etc. But that stuff becomes annoying when the thing that's staring them in the bloody face rolls on and on without ever being addressed and that's the fact that the family section needs moved and that area made safe standing, it would help the atmosphere and therefor the team on the park far more than green energy or sausages made out of soya.

That and being far far more direct and forceful through the media when dealing with stuff like the cup final ticket fiasco.

[JOD]

We need to sort out that ff stand and make it more intimidating for away teams. At the moment Easter Road atmosphere is a joke and just look at our home record. No wonder our away results are better
Time to step up Ron and if it upsets a number of stay away St holders so be it.
We need to get behind the ff goal rocking for home games preferably with a standing section.

[Mikey_1875]

Closing the FF Upper to season tickets sounds like a terrible idea. There'll be ST holders that'll have sat there for years and they'd be asked to relocate to worse seats just to fill in some gaps elsewhere. To make matters worse for them, their preferred seats would then be empty. Would probably get a fair number deciding not to bother renewing so would actually end up having a negative effect on the attendances.

Yeah its a fair point that it could backfire and it goes without saying that I wouldn’t think about it until every other option had been exhausted. I guess you would have to hope that the bug for watching Hibs outweighs their usual view and seat.

Also if we were creating a singing/standing section in the lower there would be a lot of movement which might free up better seats in the east and west. Maybe with some sort of sweetener it would be viable. The focus should definitely be on improving attendances before going down that road though and I really hope there is some sort of new initiative planned for next season to resolve both atmosphere and attendance.

[JimBHibees]

Actually thought the atmosphere was ok. Wasn't the most exciting game overall but thought a Huge bs fans got behind the team pretty well.

[Chorley Hibee]

This might not be a popular opinion, but I'm not sure the layout of Easter Road helps in this regard either.

The stands are too far from the pitch and the gaps between all 4 stands don't help either.

It's not the sole issue though, I think we're encountering a perfect storm of issues in relation to atmosphere (prices, Covid, performances) and it's making ER quite a soulless place at present.

[Brightside]

Thought the atmosphere was great. We do need to do something about the famous five. Seen more fans at a women’s game than use that stand.

[Pretty Boy]

What if we weren’t solely reliant on one particular end or group for this atmosphere but split the responsibility between two: being the North and East. It’s been very common in Europe for years where clubs have not just one but two, three or more ultras groups setting up camp across their respective grounds. Not working in competition but harmony.

Celtic for the last few seasons have seen a split within their more fanatical ‘North Curve’ element with the Bhoys group Establishing themselves in the Jock Stein, across from the Green Brigade still in their traditional Section 111. Working together this helped carry and build atmosphere to an area of the stadium seriously underperforming prior.

A similar model wouldn’t go a miss at Easter Road or at least be trialled, stretching from the FF to the end of the East. I’m thrilled to of seen the emergence of Block 7 so soon after the retirement of S‘1875 but experience or perhaps in their case an obvious lack of tells me they won’t be the guys to take our atmosphere to the next stage or even back to what it used to be. An older, more practiced group to coincide along with them could definitely do the ground some favours. Plenty candidates to more than fit that bill.


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Do we have enough 'ultras' to make that work?

Even at it's height Since1875 seemed to be about 5-6 dozen for the big games and a few less for the run of the mill. Block Seven looks considerably smaller than that based on tonight's showing.

I don't think comparing us to the European Ultras really works. It's just not our football culture. Yes it's worked at Celtic and Crystal Palace and the likes of Rangers and Ipswich draw sizeable numbers as well but it's hardly as widespread as it is across the continent.

I'm a firm believer in finding your own niche rather than trying to copy something that works elsewhere but doesn't really translate particularly well.

[Keith_M]

I'm not really sure I get how moving the guys stood at the front of the East last night to another part of the stadium is going to make them any noisier.

There would be the same number of people, making the same amount of noise, with the same number of empty seats and the same number of people that don't join in the singing.

:confused:

[Jones28]

I'm not really sure I get how moving the guys stood at the front of the East last night to another part of the stadium is going to make them any noisier.

There would be the same number of people, making the same amount of noise, with the same number of empty seats and the same number of people that don't join in the singing.

:confused:

I'm fully behind the idea of turning that in to a safe standing area, then letting the guys with the drum in there.

Thats what we should be doing.

[ABZHFC]

FF lower, all standing, unreserved spaces - sell heavily discounted season tickets and £15 match tickets. You'd have it full most weeks

[jacomo]

I thought tonight was a real chance to beat them the way it went.

Whilst I think we were too cautious I wonder if the lack of crowd and atmosphere contributes to that as well. Would we be braver if the crowd was there really pushing the team on maybe. Don’t know the answer obviously but it’s definitely a support that is lacking something at the moment.


Good point. Fans can affect the match. We do have a responsibility here.

[mcohibs]

Good point. Fans can affect the match. We do have a responsibility here.

And the club have a responsibility to ensure that they're getting as many fans through the door as possible to affect the atmosphere and ultimately drive the team on. £35 a ticket for a midweek game doesn't do that IMO

[nickwhibs]

FF lower, all standing, unreserved spaces - sell heavily discounted season tickets and £15 match tickets. You'd have it full most weeks

Agreed - even £20 would be more affordable than current over-pricing. We really need to making Easter Road more appealing, doing everything we can to get more people in and creating a better atmosphere again. Of course results/performances have an impact but so does pricing and being part of something a bit more exciting.

[HibeeHibernian4]

£35 a ticket. Hibs need to realise that getting more bums on seats with lower pricing generates an atmosphere that can actually help the team

It’s 100% this and we can dance around it all we want but until it’s addressed nothing will change.

[B.H.F.C]

It’s 100% this and we can dance around it all we want but until it’s addressed nothing will change.

It’s not 100% that when you have large numbers of season ticket holders not turning up. Three next to me not there last night not there for no other reason than they don’t particularly enjoy it and couldn’t be bothered going.

[yonder1875]

Look at the difference in the atmosphere and crowd size from the Lennon era compared to now.

Just a reflection of what we see on the park most weeks for me.

[Since90+2]

FF lower, all standing, unreserved spaces - sell heavily discounted season tickets and £15 match tickets. You'd have it full most weeks

You'd also likely bankrupt the club if you effectively halved the price of season ticket. Unless you are suggesting discounted only for FF lower which would never happen.

Also, unreserved spaces even with rail seats is not permitted.

[Keith_M]

FF lower, all standing, unreserved spaces - sell heavily discounted season tickets and £15 match tickets. You'd have it full most weeks


Do you mean reduced prices for FF Lower only or for the whole stadium?


:dunno:

[andrew70]

If we reduce the value of a ticket for an area in the FFL would we not then have to do similar in the south (I.e. away fans). Sure there is a rule in there somewhere.

[the tornadoe]

For me it's 100% down to what's on the park, look back at the last 7 or 8 years and crowds were way up when we played good attractive attacking football, we rarely do that now !

[EI255]

I agree, I am West Upper at the same end - shame so many of their songs are about hating catholics or the IRA though......................tossers.And their rendition of We'll be coming down the road, delete words and replace with the UDA volunteers..... Utter utter szcum.

I loathe every part of that lot.

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[Keith_M]

For me it's 100% down to what's on the park, look back at the last 7 or 8 years and crowds were way up when we played good attractive attacking football, we rarely do that now !


The thing is, if you go back to before we won the Scottish Cup, the crowds were generally around where they are just now, or even lower.

We definitely got a boost from that win, promotion the following season, then having a really exciting first season back in the premier league. I wondered during those three seasons or so how long that would last and (IMO) it seems to have finally ended.

What the club really need to do now is to evaluate how they can get that feeling back again, and encourage more fans back to ER. There's no simple fix, though, and I don't envy them the challenge.

I'd imagine winning the League Cup would help a lot, along with strengthening the squad in January.

[lord bunberry]

You'd also likely bankrupt the club if you effectively halved the price of season ticket. Unless you are suggesting discounted only for FF lower which would never happen.

Also, unreserved spaces even with rail seats is not permitted.
I thought the sheep were doing unreserved seating for their area behind the goals. I quite like the idea of having cheaper season tickets in the famous five lower in order to pack it out each game, half price would be to much but maybe £25 a ticket and the equivalent discount for season tickets would be a great idea.

[Pretty Boy]

The high walk up prices are to try and drive people towards buying season tickets. As a business strategy it's all about making pay as you go as unappealing as possible, it's a risky one though.

My ST was £385 at early bird price and would have been £405 had I waited. That works out at, on an even split of 19 home and away game which doesn't always happen, £20.26 or £21.31 per game respectively. By comparison if I attended 13 Cat B matches and 6 Cat A matches (assuming top 6 and an even 19 game split again) as a walk up I would pay a total of £536 or an average of £28.21 per game.

I've argued for some time that clubs want increasing financial commitments from their support base. Attending games is simply no longer enough from a business perspective. Buying a ST is the best way to support your club, then there is pressure to pay into HSL, FOH, AberDNA, the Well Society etc etc, some kind of membership scheme at Hibs is an inevitability now and of course the real fans must have their NFTs too. The latter is obviously being facetious but the point stands, fans are plugging all kinds of financial shortfalls due to the collective failure of Scottish football as a product. I think part of the drive towards STs is the transfer windows. In years gone by clubs could buy players whenever so there wasn't the same pressure to add to a wage bill and potentially shell out transfer fees in one summer period. Budgets have to be set and ST income plays a big part in that at our level.

I said at the start it's a risky strategy though because if fans don't like what they see on the park they will vote with their feet. Variation in attendance is more nuanced than that, especially in the current climate, but performance is still almost certainly the biggest driver for all but the hardcore who will attend regardless. I think the last few years has proven that sits at between 7 and 9K for us as a club.

Hibs need to find a balance that retains the benefits of the ST but doesn't alienate those who can't or won't commit to one. My sister is a semi regular walk up, she didn't go last night because £33 was too much at this time of year. If there is a belief in the Hibs boardroom that making the 'match day experience' better will encourage people to stump up £30+ for games regularly then i think they will discover soon that they are a bit delusional. Our football culture is such that the game is the most important thing. We aren't college football fans who are there to see brass bands, have tailgate barbecues and spend more time away from our seats than we do in them. Better catering, tarted up concourses and big screens are all nice extras but it wouldn't be the driver for me to commit to a ST with a hugely inflated price next year, an entertaining team on the park would.

[Keith_M]

I thought the sheep were doing unreserved seating for their area behind the goals. I quite like the idea of having cheaper season tickets in the famous five lower in order to pack it out each game, half price would be to much but maybe £25 a ticket and the equivalent discount for season tickets would be a great idea.


Then you'll have two new problems:

1) Loads of people in other parts of the stadium will complain they're paying more

2) We'll have to charge the same in the away end (I think that's an SPFL rule), meaning visiting fans will be charged less than most home fans.



I think the club would have to be very creative in how they did something like that,to get round those two issues.

FWIW, Aberdeen wouldn't have this problem, as there's no other part of the stadium exactly equivalent to their 'shed' end.

[Brightside]

For me it's 100% down to what's on the park, look back at the last 7 or 8 years and crowds were way up when we played good attractive attacking football, we rarely do that now !

7 or 8 years ago we used to have about 8000 at half the games. We play good football. Attacking and defending.

[Northernhibee]

I do believe the pandemic to be the key factor. Lots of people find money tighter whether through inflation or wage cuts/stagnation and also Weber been in this setting for that long after over a year out of it. Once a habit is broken it’s very tough to get people back into it.

A cup win may see a boost again but nothing like the feel good bounce off 2016.

[JXM73]

Then you'll have two new problems:

1) Loads of people in other parts of the stadium will complain they're paying more

2) We'll have to charge the same in the away end (I think that's an SPFL rule), meaning visiting fans will be charged less than most home fans.



I think the club would have to be very creative in how they did something like that,to get round those two issues.

FWIW, Aberdeen wouldn't have this problem, as there's no other part of the stadium exactly equivalent to their 'shed' end.

Wouldn't be same as ffl would be standing, south lower seated

[ABZHFC]

You'd also likely bankrupt the club if you effectively halved the price of season ticket. Unless you are suggesting discounted only for FF lower which would never happen.

Also, unreserved spaces even with rail seats is not permitted.

Motherwell gave every season ticket holder from 2020-21 a free season ticket this season, this idea it would bankrupt our club is a total nonsense

[Northernhibee]

Motherwell gave every season ticket holder from 2020-21 a free season ticket this season, this idea it would bankrupt our club is a total nonsense

How has that affected them financially?

[CropleyWasGod]

Motherwell gave every season ticket holder from 2020-21 a free season ticket this season, this idea it would bankrupt our club is a total nonsense

Motherwell also dropped their prices substantially in the John Boyle years.

They went into administration.

[90274]

What proportion of ticket sales makes up overall revenue for Hibs and other clubs in Scotland?

What is the proportion of TV revenue. Wondering how far away the TV deal in Scotland is from drowning out Ticket Sales like in England.

Hibs can't make that much money from home walk up sales this season, they seem really low.

[nickwhibs]

Motherwell also dropped their prices substantially in the John Boyle years.

They went into administration.

That may well have been the case then, but there has to be a middle ground where prices aren’t too high without causing much adverse financial impact on the club. Many clubs in Germany seem to get this right. £35 for a game like last night is too high.

[WeeRussell]

I do believe the pandemic to be the key factor. Lots of people find money tighter weather through inflation or wage cuts/stagnation and also Weber been in this setting for that long after over a year out of it. Once a habit is broken it’s very tough to get people back into it.

A cup win may see a boost again but nothing like the feel good bounce off 2016.

:agree: I thought nobody was going to mention it. Coronavirus is still a huge part of how we live our lives and is undoubtedly still having an effect on people's decision to attend the football, particularly for those that need to travel to go to games.

[90274]

That may well have been the case then, but there has to be a middle ground where prices aren’t too high without causing much adverse financial impact on the club. Many clubs in Germany seem to get this right. £35 for a game like last night is too high.

Especially when it's on TV.

[pollution]

All these comments have their merits but the overall factor is that the football isn't good. There is little to shout about.

Defeat after defeat in the league is soul sapping, especially at home. From my point of view the January window is make or break, league wise.

Get it right and we can really get going for the rest of the season.

[CropleyWasGod]

What proportion of ticket sales makes up overall revenue for Hibs and other clubs in Scotland?

What is the proportion of TV revenue. Wondering how far away the TV deal in Scotland is from drowning out Ticket Sales like in England.

Hibs can't make that much money from home walk up sales this season, they seem really low.

Hibs don't analyse their income.

Hearts do.....

https://www.heartsfc.co.uk/uploads/tinymce/FINAL%20HOM%202020%20Signed%20Accounts%2030.11.202 0.pdf Page 26.

In short, the gate is still the biggest single source of income, at roughly 45%.

[Biffa Bacon]

Hibs need to find a balance that retains the benefits of the ST but doesn't alienate those who can't or won't commit to one. My sister is a semi regular walk up, she didn't go last night because £33 was too much at this time of year. If there is a belief in the Hibs boardroom that making the 'match day experience' better will encourage people to stump up £30+ for games regularly then i think they will discover soon that they are a bit delusional. Our football culture is such that the game is the most important thing. We aren't college football fans who are there to see brass bands, have tailgate barbecues and spend more time away from our seats than we do in them. Better catering, tarted up concourses and big screens are all nice extras but it wouldn't be the driver for me to commit to a ST with a hugely inflated price next year, an entertaining team on the park would.

Nail on head :top marks

[90274]

Hibs don't analyse their income.

Hearts do.....

https://www.heartsfc.co.uk/uploads/tinymce/FINAL%20HOM%202020%20Signed%20Accounts%2030.11.202 0.pdf Page 26.

In short, still the biggest single source of income, at roughly 45%.

Just shows you how important season ticket and ticket sales are to a club like Hibs.

[Since90+2]

Just shows you how important season ticket and ticket sales are to a club like Hibs.

Yip.

If we were to start slashing season ticket and walk up prices the club would very quickly be in financial trouble. It's not a viable route to go down.

[Since90+2]

That may well have been the case then, but there has to be a middle ground where prices aren’t too high without causing much adverse financial impact on the club. Many clubs in Germany seem to get this right. £35 for a game like last night is too high.

German clubs earn an astronomical amount from TV revenues. We don't.

They are not comparable. The latest German TV deal was worth 4.4 billion euros.

[Carheenlea]

I’m in a prime spot in west upper in a hard to get hold of area for Season Tickets, but had almost half a row to myself and counted 20 odd empty seats in my vicinity, but all owned by ST holders.

Was similar for Celtic game so I guess a lot are just staying away to watch from comfort of home. The streaming of home matches for all home matches is obviously having an impact here. The sentiment in doing so is generous from Hibs, and welcomed I’m sure by those who are unable to attend due to shielding or isolating, but a lot seem to be just taking advantage of it to watch at home, which is their right to do of course.

[nickwhibs]

German clubs earn an astronomical amount from TV revenues. We don't.

They are not comparable. The latest German TV deal was worth 4.4 billion euros.

Fair point re the TV money. However, I do think there are lessons to be learned in terms of making things more fan-focussed and affordable. As PB says above, it’s about a balancing act. We need to look at the bigger picture in terms of retaining fans, getting more fans in and feeling more part of the club, better atmospheres etc. I’m not saying slashing prices right down (and not while season tickets holders have paid a lot already) but £30 plus puts people off. If we want to be an inclusive club, which we are for many things, we also need to make it more affordable at games going forward.

[90274]

Fair point re the TV money. However, I do think there are lessons to be learned in terms of making things more fan-focussed and affordable. As PB says above, it’s about a balancing act. We need to look at the bigger picture in terms of retaining fans, getting more fans in and feeling more part of the club, better atmospheres etc. I’m not saying slashing prices right down (and not while season tickets holders have paid a lot already) but £30 plus puts people off. If we want to be an inclusive club, which we are for many things, we also need to make it more affordable at games going forward.

How relevant is Bobby Williamsons analogy just now.

£4.99 to go to Vue cinema just now.

People want to be entertained at the Football. It has to be exciting in this day and age where everyone has short attention spans due to electronics.

[Hector Mudflap]

I'm in the camp that says lower prices - more people- more excitement - more goals- more pies sold.
Though when Motherwell tried it - it didn't work out, if I recall.

I also sit in the camp that says Jack Ross is not the man to lead the team to any form of glory. The occasional good win does not IMHO cover over the cracks of the absolute dirge football we play in the most part. Again IMHO - I feel I should point out that this forum is all about opinions and so differing ones as difficult to stomach as some maybe, all deserve to be heard. Were are all wanting the team to do well.

As mentioned in this thread previously there is a tangible lack of atmosphere and there are few people who can honestly say there is any "buzz" around the ground or the team of late.

Lennon and Stubbs both managed periods where being a Hibs fan was genuinely exciting.

I am also incredibly surprised that Ron has not taken action already. Maybe I don't want the razamataz that you might expect from an American sports day but I didn't expect flat acceptance of mediocrity.

Which some fans on here seem only too willing to accept.

[Pretty Boy]

German clubs earn an astronomical amount from TV revenues. We don't.

They are not comparable. The latest German TV deal was worth 4.4 billion euros.

Does that not feed into my point about fans being asked to plug the gaps left by the collective commercial failures of the SPFL?

Far be it for me to defend Rangers but they were spot on about the Cinch deal being crap. Hibs certainly seem to have misgivings about the performance of those managing the leagues given we are one of the clubs who have commissioned a wide ranging report looking at various aspects of our game.

It's a bit ludicrous that fans are shelling out money on top of their ST, merchandise, TV subscriptions etc for nothing tangible all so we an compete with Accrington Stanley on wages.

[DIXIHIBS]

Although the atmosphere/crowds have been very poor this season for various reasons, i thought last night was much better. Not exactly bouncing but certainly an improvement.

[flash]

I'm in the camp that says lower prices - more people- more excitement - more goals- more pies sold.
Though when Motherwell tried it - it didn't work out, if I recall.

I also sit in the camp that says Jack Ross is not the man to lead the team to any form of glory. The occasional good win does not IMHO cover over the cracks of the absolute dirge football we play in the most part. Again IMHO - I feel I should point out that this forum is all about opinions and so differing ones as difficult to stomach as some maybe, all deserve to be heard. Were are all wanting the team to do well.

As mentioned in this thread previously there is a tangible lack of atmosphere and there are few people who can honestly say there is any "buzz" around the ground or the team of late.

Lennon and Stubbs both managed periods where being a Hibs fan was genuinely exciting.

I am also incredibly surprised that Ron has not taken action already. Maybe I don't want the razamataz that you might expect from an American sports day but I didn't expect flat acceptance of mediocrity.

Which some fans on here seem only too willing to accept.
Totally ruined any decent points you made by the old faithful "accepting mediocrity."

[Nakedmanoncrack]

I'm not really sure I get how moving the guys stood at the front of the East last night to another part of the stadium is going to make them any noisier.

There would be the same number of people, making the same amount of noise, with the same number of empty seats and the same number of people that don't join in the singing.

:confused:

Nail on head.

As long as we are relying on a few dozen people to create an atmosphere, there will be none.
Fact is that very few Hibs fans want to sing, create atmosphere etc, for most its simply not something they've ever done (apart from possibly the very odd occasion).

[Hector Mudflap]

Totally ruined any decent points you made by the old faithful "accepting mediocrity."

Well admitting there were decent points makes me wonder why you would disagree with the phrase. If it's the terminology then allow me to rephrase-

"I'm surprised Ron is so willing to acknowledge tedium".


Are you of the opinion that what is being dished up almost every single week is not mediocre ? Do you believe that this is an exciting team to watch?
Are you honestly happy with the product you are paying for?
Are you of the opinion that we play exciting football and have been only "unlucky" ?
Do you think this is the best brand of football the worlds ever seen?
Are you confident that we are "up for the cup"
Have you convinced yourself that our team's the greatest -they never give up?

I am highlighting that with American companies "accepting mediocrity" is not something they are known for
I base this on a working life with three of the largest US multinationals - just in case anyone questions my reasoning.
Ron and his backroom staff seem intent of selling almost every inch of Hibernian to any interested media outlet or advertiser and so I would wager that he realises the value of selling a product is directly inline to one people are excited to be a part of.
We are not that exciting .

In my humble opinion.
I would genuinely like to hear yours.

[hibeerealist]

The high walk up prices are to try and drive people towards buying season tickets. As a business strategy it's all about making pay as you go as unappealing as possible, it's a risky one though.

My ST was £385 at early bird price and would have been £405 had I waited. That works out at, on an even split of 19 home and away game which doesn't always happen, £20.26 or £21.31 per game respectively. By comparison if I attended 13 Cat B matches and 6 Cat A matches (assuming top 6 and an even 19 game split again) as a walk up I would pay a total of £536 or an average of £28.21 per game.

I've argued for some time that clubs want increasing financial commitments from their support base. Attending games is simply no longer enough from a business perspective. Buying a ST is the best way to support your club, then there is pressure to pay into HSL, FOH, AberDNA, the Well Society etc etc, some kind of membership scheme at Hibs is an inevitability now and of course the real fans must have their NFTs too. The latter is obviously being facetious but the point stands, fans are plugging all kinds of financial shortfalls due to the collective failure of Scottish football as a product. I think part of the drive towards STs is the transfer windows. In years gone by clubs could buy players whenever so there wasn't the same pressure to add to a wage bill and potentially shell out transfer fees in one summer period. Budgets have to be set and ST income plays a big part in that at our level.

I said at the start it's a risky strategy though because if fans don't like what they see on the park they will vote with their feet. Variation in attendance is more nuanced than that, especially in the current climate, but performance is still almost certainly the biggest driver for all but the hardcore who will attend regardless. I think the last few years has proven that sits at between 7 and 9K for us as a club.

Hibs need to find a balance that retains the benefits of the ST but doesn't alienate those who can't or won't commit to one. My sister is a semi regular walk up, she didn't go last night because £33 was too much at this time of year. If there is a belief in the Hibs boardroom that making the 'match day experience' better will encourage people to stump up £30+ for games regularly then i think they will discover soon that they are a bit delusional. Our football culture is such that the game is the most important thing. We aren't college football fans who are there to see brass bands, have tailgate barbecues and spend more time away from our seats than we do in them. Better catering, tarted up concourses and big screens are all nice extras but it wouldn't be the driver for me to commit to a ST with a hugely inflated price next year, an entertaining team on the park would.

Good post PB. The performances on the park part very relevant.

[007]

The 5 and 8 game packages were a decent idea but a flaw was the 5 and 8 game were set. Something similar that lets you choose any 5 or 8 matches but set such as any 2 Cat A and 6 Cat B that is priced somewhere between ST and walk-up prices would work better.

Maybe even a 3/4 and a 1/4 season ticket too.

[SChibs]

Nail on head.

As long as we are relying on a few dozen people to create an atmosphere, there will be none.
Fact is that very few Hibs fans want to sing, create atmosphere etc, for most its simply not something they've ever done (apart from possibly the very odd occasion).

Exactly. The atmosphere was good at the end of the east last night because that was the only area with home fans that made any noise. Most Hibs fans are more interested in getting a good view rather than creating a good atmosphere.

[NAE NOOKIE]

£35 for a Cat A game is seven quid too much, £28 for a standard league game is five quid too much. If you cant afford to pay up front for a season ticket, or buying one is simply impractical for work reasons, or using the monthly payment option is something your work situation makes difficult I'm at a loss to see how making you pay through the nose for a walk up ticket can encourage you to see a ST as attractive, it doesn't change the reason you had not to buy one in the first place.

If Hibs continue on this trajectory we will continue to see attendances like last night. I was never one for the idea of slashing prices to silly levels in an attempt to fill the stadium, but one thing is for sure, charging £35 for a Scottish league game no matter the opposition sure as hell isn't going to fill it either. If it's just all about maximising income to the extent that we are making our own fans pay through the nose with a clear knock on effect that we are also discouraging attendance by our less well off fans, why don't we just give the old firm half the east as well as the south.

IMO as things stand Hibs are a baw hair away from Doncaster logic ... who cares who the fans support so long as you put bums on seats and income is maximised ... If we are not prepared to be realistic about prices even in the face of it clearly putting home fans off and that state of affairs continues, how long will it be before the next step is giving more tickets to the clubs who will have no bother shifting them no matter the price.

[the tornadoe]

7 or 8 years ago we used to have about 8000 at half the games. We play good football. Attacking and defending.

If you read the original post properly I never sai " 7 or 8 years ago " I said the LAST 7 or 8 years !!

[mcohibs]

£35 for a Cat A game is seven quid too much, £28 for a standard league game is five quid too much. If you cant afford to pay up front for a season ticket, or buying one is simply impractical for work reasons, or using the monthly payment option is something your work situation makes difficult I'm at a loss to see how making you pay through the nose for a walk up ticket can encourage you to see a ST as attractive, it doesn't change the reason you had not to buy one in the first place.

If Hibs continue on this trajectory we will continue to see attendances like last night. I was never one for the idea of slashing prices to silly levels in an attempt to fill the stadium, but one thing is for sure, charging £35 for a Scottish league game no matter the opposition sure as hell isn't going to fill it either. If it's just all about maximising income to the extent that we are making our own fans pay through the nose with a clear knock on effect that we are also discouraging attendance by our less well off fans, why don't we just give the old firm half the east as well as the south.

IMO as things stand Hibs are a baw hair away from Doncaster logic ... who cares who the fans support so long as you put bums on seats and income is maximised ... If we are not prepared to be realistic about prices even in the face of it clearly putting home fans off and that state of affairs continues, how long will it be before the next step is giving more tickets to the clubs who will have no bother shifting them no matter the price.

Absolutely spot on

[Keith_M]

German clubs earn an astronomical amount from TV revenues. We don't.

They are not comparable. The latest German TV deal was worth 4.4 billion euros.


:agree:

Makes it much easier to subsidise tickets for certain areas of the stadium if you have so much extra income.

FWIW, tickets at German Stadia are often quite expensive, if you're not in the limited Safe Standing areas.


Though I totally get people's complaints about paying £35 for a league game. That's the same price as most Adult tickets for the Cup Final.

[Brightside]

If you read the original post properly I never sai " 7 or 8 years ago " I said the LAST 7 or 8 years !!

Eh?

[Pretty Boy]

Exactly. The atmosphere was good at the end of the east last night because that was the only area with home fans that made any noise. Most Hibs fans are more interested in getting a good view rather than creating a good atmosphere.

Is there not an argument to be made that there is merit in giving people a choice?

A fan attending ER really has 2 choices currently. Sit at the side of the pitch or sit behind the goals. We can dress things up as bronze, silver and gold but there isn't a huge amount of variance between seats, particularly those in the same tiers.

I've sat in the FF since it was built, in the lower initially then upstairs for more than a decade now, moving about to 2 or 3 different seats in that time. I'm not a huge singer at most games but what I do like to do is stand. That's not based on a romanticised notion of standing at the football being some kind of zenith. My formative years at ER were spent between standing in the East or sitting on a wooden bench in the cowshed. Neither was remotely glamorous and my abiding memory is of pretty dull football and being freezing a lot. However I love trips to Hampden, Ibrox, Tynecastle etc were fans take the decision themselves to stand. If I had the option to go and stand in an allocated area at ER then I would absolutely do it. I suggest I am not alone in that. Further I think a lot of people making that choice would get caught up in the singing. It's something our younger fans would be attracted to and people would naturally find their own groups and areas within a safe standing area.

It's something that might not work but we know the current set up doesn't really work all that well a lot of the time. Why not try something knew? It might flop, it might be no different from it is now or it might be something that flourishes organically given time. Surely it's better to try something different rather than just shutting down new ideas and saying 'that won't work'?

[Smartie]

I have a hunch that Ron Gordon is going to find out over the next year or two that growing a Scottish football club isn't as easy as it looks - and that the previous incumbents weren't as incompetent as many make them out to be.

[Lago]

£35 for a Cat A game is seven quid too much, £28 for a standard league game is five quid too much. If you cant afford to pay up front for a season ticket, or buying one is simply impractical for work reasons, or using the monthly payment option is something your work situation makes difficult I'm at a loss to see how making you pay through the nose for a walk up ticket can encourage you to see a ST as attractive, it doesn't change the reason you had not to buy one in the first place.

If Hibs continue on this trajectory we will continue to see attendances like last night. I was never one for the idea of slashing prices to silly levels in an attempt to fill the stadium, but one thing is for sure, charging £35 for a Scottish league game no matter the opposition sure as hell isn't going to fill it either. If it's just all about maximising income to the extent that we are making our own fans pay through the nose with a clear knock on effect that we are also discouraging attendance by our less well off fans, why don't we just give the old firm half the east as well as the south.

IMO as things stand Hibs are a baw hair away from Doncaster logic ... who cares who the fans support so long as you put bums on seats and income is maximised ... If we are not prepared to be realistic about prices even in the face of it clearly putting home fans off and that state of affairs continues, how long will it be before the next step is giving more tickets to the clubs who will have no bother shifting them no matter the price.
Very good post, I gave up my season ticket about 4 years ago and did walk up pay at the gate. However when I think about going back to ER now what do I find, covid protocols, tickets basically only available online and print at home, so computer, printer, smart phone needed, then the problem of excessive ticket prices, no way will I pay them period. Consequently my football is now TV based and I don't think I'm alone in doing this.

[JimBHibees]

I'm in the camp that says lower prices - more people- more excitement - more goals- more pies sold.
Though when Motherwell tried it - it didn't work out, if I recall.

I also sit in the camp that says Jack Ross is not the man to lead the team to any form of glory. The occasional good win does not IMHO cover over the cracks of the absolute dirge football we play in the most part. Again IMHO - I feel I should point out that this forum is all about opinions and so differing ones as difficult to stomach as some maybe, all deserve to be heard. Were are all wanting the team to do well.

As mentioned in this thread previously there is a tangible lack of atmosphere and there are few people who can honestly say there is any "buzz" around the ground or the team of late.

Lennon and Stubbs both managed periods where being a Hibs fan was genuinely exciting.

I am also incredibly surprised that Ron has not taken action already. Maybe I don't want the razamataz that you might expect from an American sports day but I didn't expect flat acceptance of mediocrity.

Which some fans on here seem only too willing to accept.

Disagree with much of that less than two weeks after deservedly horsing the league champions in a semi final to get to a consecutive domestic final. Performances have been pretty good recently.

[Not In The Know]

£35 for a Cat A game is seven quid too much, £28 for a standard league game is five quid too much. If you cant afford to pay up front for a season ticket, or buying one is simply impractical for work reasons, or using the monthly payment option is something your work situation makes difficult I'm at a loss to see how making you pay through the nose for a walk up ticket can encourage you to see a ST as attractive, it doesn't change the reason you had not to buy one in the first place.

If Hibs continue on this trajectory we will continue to see attendances like last night. I was never one for the idea of slashing prices to silly levels in an attempt to fill the stadium, but one thing is for sure, charging £35 for a Scottish league game no matter the opposition sure as hell isn't going to fill it either. If it's just all about maximising income to the extent that we are making our own fans pay through the nose with a clear knock on effect that we are also discouraging attendance by our less well off fans, why don't we just give the old firm half the east as well as the south.

IMO as things stand Hibs are a baw hair away from Doncaster logic ... who cares who the fans support so long as you put bums on seats and income is maximised ... If we are not prepared to be realistic about prices even in the face of it clearly putting home fans off and that state of affairs continues, how long will it be before the next step is giving more tickets to the clubs who will have no bother shifting them no matter the price.

Out of interest, does anyone know how much Hearts charge?

[JimBHibees]

Out of interest, does anyone know how much Hearts charge?

Assume the prices are pretty standard across the board.

[JimBHibees]

Although the atmosphere/crowds have been very poor this season for various reasons, i thought last night was much better. Not exactly bouncing but certainly an improvement.

Agree thought it was fine.

[Nakedmanoncrack]

Out of interest, does anyone know how much Hearts charge?

Top price £34 for Cat A, £30 Cat B.

https://www.heartsfc.co.uk/tickets-and-hospitality/matchday/pricing-structure

[B.H.F.C]

Disagree with much of that less than two weeks after deservedly horsing the league champions in a semi final to get to a consecutive domestic final. Performances have been pretty good recently.

I don’t think the performances have been pretty good recently. The semi final was outstanding, St Johnstone was good but other than that we’ve not been watching football that is going to get people back in to the stadium. I think that’s shown by the number of people who have paid not bothering to turn up.

Agree with what someone mentioned earlier that it’s the perfect storm as far as attendances go at the moment. But what is happening on the pitch is definitely a contributing factor.

[JimBHibees]

I don’t think the performances have been pretty good recently. The semi final was outstanding, St Johnstone was good but other than that we’ve not been watching football that is going to get people back in to the stadium. I think that’s shown by the number of people who have paid not bothering to turn up.

Agree with what someone mentioned earlier that it’s the perfect storm as far as attendances go at the moment. But what is happening on the pitch is definitely a contributing factor.

We have been good in 3 of the last 4 games I think that is pretty good. Wasn't the most exciting game but both teams cancelled each other out and we deserved a draw. Loads of reasons why people not attending and attendances are disappointing though cost is too expensive imo, not that easy to get tickets, Covid reluctance and cold night for folk with kids. Personally quite like this team and some of the individual performances were very good against a team with x10 resources than we have.

[Pretty Boy]

Out of interest, does anyone know how much Hearts charge?

Cat A walk up is £34 platinum, £31 gold, £30 silver and £29 bronze.
Cat B is £30 platinum, £27 gold, £21 silver and £19 bronze.

Hibs Cat B is £28 gold, £26 silver and £24 bronze in the East.

I'm not totally sure on Hibs Cat A but £33 silver and £35 gold rings a bell.

[StirlingHibee]

Agree with the original poster that the atmosphere seems flat these days. A midweek game under the lights normally heightens the atmosphere but I just didn't feel it last night - if anything it was the away end that generated any sort of atmosphere. Atmosphere is linked to bums on seats and there were lots of empty seats last night. Don't think it is any one thing but a number of factors including finance, game on TV and Covid. Additionally, as has been been brought up by others, I do think we have lost a number of fans as a result of the pandemic. I think some people have found other pastimes/hobbies and have simply got out of the habit of going to the game.

[lord bunberry]

I'm in the camp that says lower prices - more people- more excitement - more goals- more pies sold.
Though when Motherwell tried it - it didn't work out, if I recall.

I also sit in the camp that says Jack Ross is not the man to lead the team to any form of glory. The occasional good win does not IMHO cover over the cracks of the absolute dirge football we play in the most part. Again IMHO - I feel I should point out that this forum is all about opinions and so differing ones as difficult to stomach as some maybe, all deserve to be heard. Were are all wanting the team to do well.

As mentioned in this thread previously there is a tangible lack of atmosphere and there are few people who can honestly say there is any "buzz" around the ground or the team of late.

Lennon and Stubbs both managed periods where being a Hibs fan was genuinely exciting.

I am also incredibly surprised that Ron has not taken action already. Maybe I don't want the razamataz that you might expect from an American sports day but I didn't expect flat acceptance of mediocrity.

Which some fans on here seem only too willing to accept.
The most meaningless term that renders the rest of your post not worth debating.

[lord bunberry]

Totally ruined any decent points you made by the old faithful "accepting mediocrity."
Haha you beat me to it :greengrin

[B.H.F.C]

We have been good in 3 of the last 4 games I think that is pretty good. Wasn't the most exciting game but both teams cancelled each other out and we deserved a draw. Loads of reasons why people not attending and attendances are disappointing though cost is too expensive imo, not that easy to get tickets, Covid reluctance and cold night for folk with kids. Personally quite like this team and some of the individual performances were very good against a team with x10 resources than we have.

Matter of opinion as to how good we’ve been. And it also goes beyond the last four games. I do accept there are loads of valid reasons for folk not going just now but we’re kidding ourselves if we don’t think the football is something to do with it (it certainly is for the folk I know that aren’t going).

The cost of going is expensive which, for me, makes it even more of a concern that people aren’t fussed for going when they’ve parted with their cash.

[Sir David Gray]

Cat A walk up is £34 platinum, £31 gold, £30 silver and £29 bronze.
Cat B is £30 platinum, £27 gold, £21 silver and £19 bronze.

Hibs Cat B is £28 gold, £26 silver and £24 bronze in the East.

I'm not totally sure on Hibs Cat A but £33 silver and £35 gold rings a bell.

Those category B prices for Hibs are actually for category C i.e. games v Dundee, Livingston, Motherwell, Ross County, St Johnstone and St Mirren.

Category B (Aberdeen and Dundee Utd) is £32 gold, £30 silver and £28 bronze.

Category A (Celtic, Hearts and Rangers) is £35 gold, £33 silver and £31 bronze.

[Pretty Boy]

Those category B prices for Hibs are actually for category C i.e. games v Dundee, Livingston, Motherwell, Ross County, St Johnstone and St Mirren.

Category B (Aberdeen and Dundee Utd) is £32 gold, £30 silver and £28 bronze.

Category A (Celtic, Hearts and Rangers) is £35 gold, £33 silver and £31 bronze.

Paying £30+ to watch Hibs v Aberdeen is ****ing scandalous really.

It's not really on to say it because it's Hibs and it's what we do but I almost hope more people stop paying it to send a message.

[Hibeesforever]

Paying £30+ to watch Hibs v Aberdeen is ****ing scandalous really.

It's not really on to say it because it's Hibs and it's what we do but I almost hope more people stop paying it to send a message.

I chose the Rangers game last night, I want to go to both Rangers and Motherwell but too expensive with my teenage son too. Prices way too high.

[tmb1875]

Aye but it’s all about the match day experience! [emoji23] build big screens and they will come….


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Sir David Gray]

Paying £30+ to watch Hibs v Aberdeen is ****ing scandalous really.

It's not really on to say it because it's Hibs and it's what we do but I almost hope more people stop paying it to send a message.

Agreed.

[Eyrie]

If tickets are £30, then Hibs get £25 after VAT.

If tickets are £24. then Hibs get £20 after VAT.

So cutting the price requires a 25% increase in the crowd for Hibs to have the same income from ticket sales, which make up 45% (can't think we're that different to Hearts) of our income. And if that 25% increase doesn't happen, then Hibs have less money to compete with Accrington Stanley on wages, and we're seeing a lower standard of player at Easter Road which will make it harder to get that 25% increase in crowds.

I'm not saying that £30 is acceptable, but simply looking at the consequences for us of cutting the price.

As regards other sources of income, if Hibs can get more money from TV, sponsorship or whatever, that money can be used to improve the squad or to cut ticket prices, but it can't be fully used for both at the same time.

What we need is the same as every other club and every other league - better football on the pitch from both Hibs and whoever is our opponent that week, because better football will increase crowds far more than cutting prices. Cup wins would also help, as we saw after 2016.

[PolmontHibby]

There are no doubt many reasons for people not attending even when having season tickets, and for myself it is lack of Saturday games. Work makes it difficult on any other day, and with only 4 of 13 games on a Saturday up to the winter break, one of which I could also not make, it is making me think (not for the first time) about giving up being a long standing season ticket holder,

I also know a few others who have given up season tickets over last few years and moved to attending a small number of games at hospitality instead.

Hopefully the review being undertaken will look at all variables, and would be good to know how non Saturday games impact attendance (real attendance that is, not the 17,000+ attendance given for last nights game).

[Bobby's Cinema]

Personally think alot of the newer songs don't hit the mark to get things going and the old songs are the best that don't come out often enough.

Maybe getting old. Felt like a younger crowd around me last night

[one day maybe...]

FF lower should be free to children under 13 accompanied by an adutl for all games outwith CAT A games. this area of the ground should have no ST availablty for the season. It should be for walk ups for the big games and for bringing in our future fans.

[Brightside]

FF lower should be free to children under 13 accompanied by an adutl for all games outwith CAT A games. this area of the ground should have no ST availablty for the season. It should be for walk ups for the big games and for bringing in our future fans.

It should be safe standing and let all the young team in there. Use the corners of west and east for family tickets.

[NAE NOOKIE]

Aye but it’s all about the match day experience! [emoji23] build big screens and they will come….


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

That sort of stuff has it's place. But ( and I think this is a basic of European football Ron hasn't quite grasped ) this is not North America, the matchday experience begins and ends with what's on the park and the atmosphere created by the fans off it and no amount of window dressing can change that fact

https://youtu.be/HpV5vvHt_K8

OMG .... If only

[Tommy75]

That sort of stuff has it's place. But ( and I think this is a basic of European football Ron hasn't quite grasped ) this is not North America, the matchday experience begins and ends with what's on the park and the atmosphere created by the fans off it and no amount of window dressing can change that fact

https://youtu.be/HpV5vvHt_K8

OMG .... If only

The way Hearts fans and their pals in the media go on, you'd think Tynecastle was like that every week.

Looks amazing!

[NAE NOOKIE]

The way Hearts fans and their pals in the media go on, you'd think Tynecastle was like that every week.

Looks amazing!

They wish lol. But in all seriousness, the full version of that video is mental and way over the top, but a slightly watered down version is my idea of what football matches should be like, we have sanitised our game off the park down to something akin to a slightly over excited Daniel O'Donnell concert ... with only a few small groups at most clubs fighting against the odds to retain some sort of atmosphere, not least at our own club.
look at the outrage a couple of smoke bombs caused last night .. not flares as some folk seemed determined to call them .. but smoke bombs. Though I acknowledge that for most folk the timing of them was more the issue than the fact they were thrown at all.

Its a bit like these threads we get before cup finals where folk say, hey why dont we all wear green and make a real show of it ... FFS when you go to a cup final supporting Hibs you would think the least you could do is wear something green, even if its a scarf, to my mind I find it incredible that folk need to be encouraged to do it .... I mean, if you go to a game as important as a cup final and you still need to be encouraged to wear the clubs colours and join in the singing whats the point of going at all, you might as well watch it on the telly.

Perhaps I'm an unrealistic auld romantic when it comes to the game and what it should be as a supporter and why I'm such a fan of the idea of an FF standing section .... but rather that than the noiseless colourless spectacle the folk running the game seem to be determined to turn it into, with unfortunately far too many fans seemingly willing to accept it.

[Carheenlea]

They wish lol. But in all seriousness, the full version of that video is mental and way over the top, but a slightly watered down version is my idea of what football matches should be like, we have sanitised our game off the park down to something akin to a slightly over excited Daniel O'Donnell concert ... with only a few small groups at most clubs fighting against the odds to retain some sort of atmosphere, not least at our own club.
look at the outrage a couple of smoke bombs caused last night .. not flares as some folk seemed determined to call them .. but smoke bombs. Though I acknowledge that for most folk the timing of them was more the issue than the fact they were thrown at all.

Its a bit like these threads we get before cup finals where folk say, hey why dont we all wear green and make a real show of it ... FFS when you go to a cup final supporting Hibs you would think the least you could do is wear something green, even if its a scarf, to my mind I find it incredible that folk need to be encouraged to do it .... I mean, if you go to a game as important as a cup final and you still need to be encouraged to wear the clubs colours and join in the singing whats the point of going at all, you might as well watch it on the telly.

Perhaps I'm an unrealistic auld romantic when it comes to the game and what it should be as a supporter and why I'm such a fan of the idea of an FF standing section .... but rather that than the noiseless colourless spectacle the folk running the game seem to be determined to turn it into, with unfortunately far too many fans seemingly willing to accept it.

I don’t wear much in the way of club colours, won’t be doing a lot of singing but certainly won’t be watching the final on the telly.

I really don’t understand this need for fans to be dictating to other fans what they should do, what they can’t sing or should sing, when they should sing, how many pints they can have , what they should wear or whether they should stay at home and watch on TV because they are not classed as good enough fans to attend.

Finals going to be a cracking atmosphere - don’t see what the worry is all about?

[NAE NOOKIE]

I don’t wear much in the way of club colours, won’t be doing a lot of singing but certainly won’t be watching the final on the telly.

I really don’t understand this need for fans to be dictating to other fans what they should do, what they can’t sing or should sing, when they should sing, how many pints they can have , what they should wear or whether they should stay at home and watch on TV because they are not classed as good enough fans to attend.

Finals going to be a cracking atmosphere - don’t see what the worry is all about?

lol .... I wasn't actually going as far as telling folk what to wear mate, what I said was I don't quite get why folk wouldn't want to wear at least something in their club's colours to a final, I'm not suggesting they should be stopped at the turnstiles :greengrin.
It seems a no brainer to me that if a song gets going you would want to join in so the players can hear it. As for my watch it on the telly comment, my point is if you are actually at the game why wouldn't you want to be part of the colour and atmosphere that makes it a spectacle ... I think you suggesting my opinion was that some fans aren't good enough was a bit of a misrepresentation of what I meant.

[Pagan Hibernia]

That sort of stuff has it's place. But ( and I think this is a basic of European football Ron hasn't quite grasped ) this is not North America, the matchday experience begins and ends with what's on the park and the atmosphere created by the fans off it and no amount of window dressing can change that fact

https://youtu.be/HpV5vvHt_K8

OMG .... If only

argentinian supporters and the atmosphere they create are on another level to almost anything Europe has to offer these days.

[GreenCastle]

Would folk who currently sit FF lower be wanting to move seats for the greater good of improving atmosphere ?

It’s simply a no brainer that the FF lower needs to be changed next season.

Whether it’s rebranded the singing section or safe standing section (obviously this would involve a cost to install) or even the community section with cheaper tickets in reserved seating.

But something has to change to make ER more appealing to everyone…having seen some other countries games even if the game is awful and your team lose having a loud vocal support makes the occasion more entertaining. But on the whole it really helps grow a connection between players and fans plus helps the team with support.

The challenge is upsetting folk in the FF lower but I think Hibs need to look at the full stadium set up and make changes to fill it up.

Correct me if I’m wrong it wasn’t even that long ago Hibs had a scheme that you could resell your seat if you couldn’t attend.

Hibs TV still showing live games - the cost of tickets / living and fans not fully convinced by Jack Ross seem to be main issues people aren’t attending but a fresh idea of allowing fans to stand behind the goals would add some novelty to boost numbers and hopefully get better back into the habit or even encourage new fans to attend. We are fortunate we have a great stadium but it’s not being used to its potential.

[Saint Hibee]

argentinian supporters and the atmosphere they create are on another level to almost anything Europe has to offer these days.

Apart from Tynecastle, obviously. :rolleyes:

[Shrekko]

Would folk who currently sit FF lower be wanting to move seats for the greater good of improving atmosphere ?



We should ask the pair of them ;-)

[Keith_M]

Would folk who currently sit FF lower be wanting to move seats for the greater good of improving atmosphere ?
.




Do you propose moving the whole family section to another area of the ground or just do away with the concept completely?

If the answer is moving it, what part of the ground did you have in mind? And will it be the same price as it is just now?


(not being argumentative, these are genuine questions)

[Peanut Shaz]

To be honest do we really need a family section? Most regulars know where to avoid if you don't want too much noise, possible issues etc i.e. around the signing section area maybe. I take my 4 year old Granddaughter and we sit in the FF Upper. She may hear the odd swear word but it goes over her head as it means nothing to her. Maybe I'm lucky it's a good group around us. If I was sitting in the lower though I think I would happily move if it was going to improve the atmosphere.

[Jones28]

Do you propose moving the whole family section to another area of the ground or just do away with the concept completely?

If the answer is moving it, what part of the ground did you have in mind? And will it be the same price as it is just now?


(not being argumentative, these are genuine questions)

I don’t see the need for it, there are thousands of kids all over the stadium.

I’d be tempted to offer up a “Category B” season ticket for kids with adults in the south stand. When a Catagory A game comes along the adults have a reserved seat in the other 3 stands thats fixed for the season - so for Cat B games the seat can be released for sale if a child is coming or reserved for the season ticket holder if not.

[Lago]

Do you propose moving the whole family section to another area of the ground or just do away with the concept completely?

If the answer is moving it, what part of the ground did you have in mind? And will it be the same price as it is just now?


(not being argumentative, these are genuine questions)
Would it matter where they moved it to as it would seem the families rarely turn up judging by the number of empty seats always on display.

[Bridge hibs]

I loved the FF lower family section, it was well populated when I moved down with the sprogs. I think hibs have to look at why numbers have dwindelled before looking at moving a singing/standing section there which is not guaranteed to make much difference to revenue but which might look pretty on tv for ‘big games’

I hope the family section can be reignited in the lower FF and Im sure the marketing team will be looking at that. I may have grand kids and would like to rekindle past memories, maybe even in the same seats

[lord bunberry]

I loved the FF lower family section, it was well populated when I moved down with the sprogs. I think hibs have to look at why numbers have dwindelled before looking at moving a singing/standing section there which is not guaranteed to make much difference to revenue but which might look pretty on tv for ‘big games’

I hope the family section can be reignited in the lower FF and Im sure the marketing team will be looking at that. I may have grand kids and would like to rekindle past memories, maybe even in the same seats
I’m sure you could rekindle the memories wherever the family section is. I’d also be interested to know just why it has become so unpopular these days as it’s never been as empty as it is now. Overall though I think it should move to the south and allow season ticket holders there to have first dibs on tickets for the bigger games in one of the other stands.

[Pretty Boy]

I’m sure you could rekindle the memories wherever the family section is. I’d also be interested to know just why it has become so unpopular these days as it’s never been as empty as it is now. Overall though I think it should move to the south and allow season ticket holders there to have first dibs on tickets for the bigger games in one of the other stands.

I think part of the unpopularity so to speak will be that the original family section was a 1st generation thing. By that I mean people who sat there as kids will have moved on and found their own area over the years. I was 9 or 10 when the FF was built and went in there with my mum and grandad.

25 years later, I take my own daughter and the thought of moving back down from the upper never crossed my mind. We have had seats in the upper for years now and that's where we sit. I'm sure others of my generation feel the same about the East and West.

Aside from anything else the FF lower must be the most boring place in the stadium to sit now. It's about 2/3s empty every week. Who wants to take an easily distracted child in there?

[Bridge hibs]

I’m sure you could rekindle the memories wherever the family section is. I’d also be interested to know just why it has become so unpopular these days as it’s never been as empty as it is now. Overall though I think it should move to the south and allow season ticket holders there to have first dibs on tickets for the bigger games in one of the other stands.I could, but it would be good to do it in the FF lower, thats where I had my first family memories.

[Carheenlea]

Atmosphere tends not to be manufactured.

For me, atmosphere goes deeper than simply fans singing. Just general noise from the support which is pretty much in response to what is happening on the pitch. Be that roaring the team on during encouraging passages of play, poor refereeing, foul play from opposition etc.

Some of the best atmospheres I’ve enjoyed at Easter Road haven’t really seen song singing at the forefront of it all.

[seanshow]

how many different reasons (excuses) are in this thread, justyfing why people are reluctant to join in a singsong is really poor. No point in listing them all.

My only advice to those and any others -
Break the habit and sing a long the next time and encourage your father, offspring or your friend next you to do the same.

You won't get blacklisted or ejected from the stadium :wink:

[Since90+2]

how many different reasons (excuses) are in this thread, justyfing why people are reluctant to join in a singsong is really poor. No point in listing them all.

My only advice to those and any others -
Break the habit and sing a long the next time and encourage your father, offspring or your friend next you to do the same.

You won't get blacklisted or ejected from the stadium :wink:

People don't need an "excuse" not to sing. It's not part of the condition of entry.

[GreenCastle]

Do you propose moving the whole family section to another area of the ground or just do away with the concept completely?

If the answer is moving it, what part of the ground did you have in mind? And will it be the same price as it is just now?

(not being argumentative, these are genuine questions)

Good and fair questions. I’m not sure the answer but for minimal disruption I would try establish another family friendly area in the stadium. Whether that’s the South lower with entry via the East stand passage way or a corner of the East or even West Lower. I have mentioned the idea of a Cat B ticket also with the chance to attend Cat A games if they want - but we often hear people say they won’t take kids to old firm games which is fine but maybe the adult wants to go and could save some £ if Cat B only. But making sure the club doesn’t lose £.

I remember when younger sitting behind the goals before the FF was built then in the main stand lower then in the FF lower and all have fond memories but there wasn’t much difference except a few other kids.

I think one of the biggest issues stopping a move is as far as I’m aware the club improved/ spent ££ improving the concourse to make it kid friendly.

Obviously the main issue is upsetting current ST holders and relocating them but the thing is right now the FF lower is rarely even close to being full. The big test will be the derby - if it still has loads of empty seats then our really have to wonder what’s going on.

It’s a sad state situation we are in when the stand named after the famous five has got into this condition..behind the goals being shut - lower section often sparsely populated. It needs brought back to life with the displays and noise.

As has been mentioned before if you create a fun area it’s a place over time the kids grow up and then move to..then they can retire to the West stand or East Stand or even family section elsewhere. I’m not saying get rid of the East singing area - but let’s try both. We have had several games when folk in west upper have been in hospitality and made a good amount of noise with a small group - it’s possible to make Easter Road more fun again the club just needs to be creative and not afraid of change.

[marinello59]

Do you propose moving the whole family section to another area of the ground or just do away with the concept completely?

If the answer is moving it, what part of the ground did you have in mind? And will it be the same price as it is just now?


(not being argumentative, these are genuine questions)

Its 2021. The whole stadium should be seen as family friendly.

[Fuzzywuzzy]

Would folk who currently sit FF lower be wanting to move seats for the greater good of improving atmosphere ?

It’s simply a no brainer that the FF lower needs to be changed next season.

Whether it’s rebranded the singing section or safe standing section (obviously this would involve a cost to install) or even the community section with cheaper tickets in reserved seating.

But something has to change to make ER more appealing to everyone…having seen some other countries games even if the game is awful and your team lose having a loud vocal support makes the occasion more entertaining. But on the whole it really helps grow a connection between players and fans plus helps the team with support.

The challenge is upsetting folk in the FF lower but I think Hibs need to look at the full stadium set up and make changes to fill it up.

Correct me if I’m wrong it wasn’t even that long ago Hibs had a scheme that you could resell your seat if you couldn’t attend.

Hibs TV still showing live games - the cost of tickets / living and fans not fully convinced by Jack Ross seem to be main issues people aren’t attending but a fresh idea of allowing fans to stand behind the goals would add some novelty to boost numbers and hopefully get better back into the habit or even encourage new fans to attend. We are fortunate we have a great stadium but it’s not being used to its potential.

I like my seat in the ffl (sec17). Been in there since the 2015 season when I started taking the kids. I like my seat and in all likelihood, if those in the ffl get moved it will be to the really **** seats on the end of a stand. I've been right at the end of the main before closest to the FFL and it was horrible

[Keith_M]

Maybe the DJ should play this immediately before the game starts today :greengrin



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RFPLk5mJ1D4

[hibee-boys]

We remarked on how empty the lower tier of FF was on Wednesday night but it’s pretty much like that no matter who we’re playing and when. If it’s half empty against them at New Year and it’s a ‘sell out’ I might just self combust! I suspect that re-looking at the FF lower situation will be a priority for the club, we’ve seen that they’re not afraid to try different ideas around ticketing so hopefully we can find a solution to it. There’s a fine balance to be struck between encouraging young fans to come along, although I’d question how many actually do anyway that have bought season tickets in there!, and how’s this impacts on atmosphere. I’d agree with a few on here that a safe standing section could be a good idea, perhaps even the middle 2 sections leaving the wider sections for reduced price seating for families and/or equalise kids prices across the stadium. Modern football stadiums are not the environment they once were, there’s really no need for family sections these days.

[madhibee_again]

With regards annoying/aggravating those who currently sit in the FFL it should be remembered that it’s the family stand and the whole point is you would move on to another section of the stadium when the kids you’re taking grow up. This was certainly the mantra under Dempster, as I was one of the ones who were told we’d have to move elsewhere. So with that in mind it should be regarded as a temporary place to sit anyway. I think you’d be better scrapping the family stand, but offering parent and child deals across the stadium. Would make sense in the long run and would remove folk having to move seats etc. when kids get older.

[Keith_M]

I'm honestly a bit confused about how a thread about the atmosphere (or lack of) at ER has once again turned into a discussion about the empty seats in the FF Lower.

I'm not totally against reorganising the arrangement of sections in ER, but I honestly don't get the logic that the only thing stopping people singing at games is because they're not allowed to sit in the FF Lower... or the implication that it's the only part of the stadium that you could actually make some noise in.


Surely if people just joined in with the singing, regardless of where they sit, then the atmosphere would improve?

:dunno:


Or am I missing something?

[lord bunberry]

I think part of the unpopularity so to speak will be that the original family section was a 1st generation thing. By that I mean people who sat there as kids will have moved on and found their own area over the years. I was 9 or 10 when the FF was built and went in there with my mum and grandad.

25 years later, I take my own daughter and the thought of moving back down from the upper never crossed my mind. We have had seats in the upper for years now and that's where we sit. I'm sure others of my generation feel the same about the East and West.

Aside from anything else the FF lower must be the most boring place in the stadium to sit now. It's about 2/3s empty every week. Who wants to take an easily distracted child in there?
I took my daughter there for 1 season and it wasn’t in any way family friendly. We’ve been in the east and for the last few seasons the west, the only real difference has been the price.

[Brightside]

Behind the goals is a hard sell. It’s a poor view of a football game so they need to come up with something.

[Bridge hibs]

I'm honestly a bit confused about how a thread about the atmosphere (or lack of) at ER has once again turned into a discussion about the empty seats in the FF Lower.

I'm not totally against reorganising the arrangement of sections in ER, but I honestly don't get the logic that the only thing stopping people singing at games is because they're not allowed to sit in the FF Lower... or the implication that it's the only part of the stadium that you could actually make some noise in.


Surely if people just joined in with the singing, regardless of where they sit, then the atmosphere would improve?

:dunno:


Or am I missing something?I agree Keith, you could possibly relate to standing on a wind swept east terrace with a few hardy souls huddled together barely mustering a song and the only clapping was when trying to warm our hands 🤣

Under the old gantry produced the hub of the atmosphere for many a year but if truth be told with the old stamping and rendition of hibees ringing out from the west. Easter road to me has always been up and down with regards atmosphere, sometimes different class and ear splitting such as the Athens game and games against hearts or the Glasgow two.

You are correct though, whilst I agree the dwindling numbers in the FF lower need addressed, rebranded, remarketed or whatever, but I think overall the atmosphere throughout the whole stadium needs a kick up the arse, I think the bigger picture needs looked at rather than folk on here wanting to displace others from a stand and punt them somewhere else

Like I said on another post, Im not overly fussed if I (we) were shifted to the away end, as was what happened a few seasons ago, nowadays its more of a sentimental pull for me with regards lower FF than anything else. At the end of the day, for me its just about watching my beloved hibs for 90 minutes

[GreenCastle]

I'm honestly a bit confused about how a thread about the atmosphere (or lack of) at ER has once again turned into a discussion about the empty seats in the FF Lower.

I'm not totally against reorganising the arrangement of sections in ER, but I honestly don't get the logic that the only thing stopping people singing at games is because they're not allowed to sit in the FF Lower... or the implication that it's the only part of the stadium that you could actually make some noise in.


Surely if people just joined in with the singing, regardless of where they sit, then the atmosphere would improve?

:dunno:


Or am I missing something?

I think it’s quite simple to understand.

The atmosphere needs improved - we have fans wanting to improve it.

There is an obvious issue with FF lower fans rarely attending - which ok is fine as Hibs have the ST money but surely they also want fans actually in the stadium.

Fans aren’t saying change the full stadium layout they are suggesting try something different and get fans behind the goal so Hibs have an area which can grow over time.

Hibs fans have shown they can make noise at various games - behind the goals best atmospheres are away grounds like Fir Park and Tynecastle / Dundee Utd shed etc.

As others have pointed out the family section is really a temporary section for kids but it’s important especially if it’s their first experience of ER. But as others have pointed out - actually having a decent seat in the stadium for years is probably more beneficial than having to move every so often when kids grow up etc.

Hibs need to get back to basics - more affordable - more enjoyable to attend and a chance to back the team without feeling awkward standing up to sing a song. The old east offered that - the FF lower could easily fill a void.

[LaMotta]

I'm honestly a bit confused about how a thread about the atmosphere (or lack of) at ER has once again turned into a discussion about the empty seats in the FF Lower.

I'm not totally against reorganising the arrangement of sections in ER, but I honestly don't get the logic that the only thing stopping people singing at games is because they're not allowed to sit in the FF Lower... or the implication that it's the only part of the stadium that you could actually make some noise in.


Surely if people just joined in with the singing, regardless of where they sit, then the atmosphere would improve?

:dunno:


Or am I missing something?

I think if you equate atmosphere solely with noise then you may have a point. Atmosphere at a football game for me is made up of several elements - it's also about the look and feel of the environment. I think the vast array of empty seats in the FF lower detracts severely from that, so would say it has a negative impact on atmosphere.

I also think a bouyant more populated FF lower could help the team and and also possibly energise fans in other parts of the stadium....that's hard to prove though:greengrin

[GreenCastle]

Fair play to the Motherwell fans - half a block constantly singing and making noise. Yes away fans often make more noise than home fans but there is no reason Hibs can’t aim to have the equivalent in the FF lower which would improve the atmosphere.

[Glory Lurker]

Fair play to the Motherwell fans - half a block constantly singing and making noise. Yes away fans often make more noise than home fans but there is no reason Hibs can’t aim to have the equivalent in the FF lower which would improve the atmosphere.

Bunch of rockets, though. Had the pleasure of their company on way back up Easter Road.

[Nakedmanoncrack]

As predicted, "sort out the empty FF lower", it was always going to be empty on a day like this, I wish it had been one seat emptier to be honest.

[Keith_M]

I think if you equate atmosphere solely with noise then you may have a point. Atmosphere at a football game for me is made up of several elements - it's also about the look and feel of the environment. I think the vast array of empty seats in the FF lower detracts severely from that, so would say it has a negative impact on atmosphere.

I also think a bouyant more populated FF lower could help the team and and also possibly energise fans in other parts of the stadium....that's hard to prove though:greengrin



Where were all these noisy, vibrant fans today then?

Were they all in other parts of the stadium having a silent protest about not getting to stand behind the goals?

:dunno:

Or is it just that we've not got a particularly noisy support

[A Hi-Bee]

Bunch of rockets, though. Had the pleasure of their company on way back up Easter Road.

We need more rockets, a safe place to let off flares or smoke bombs huge flags good music dancing girls when its not too cold oh and the sale of beer (no spirits) at games, lets also put hot water pipes under the seats to warm our ***** as well, perhaps some huge industrial heat blowers fixed into the roof, then the atmosphere may improve a good side on the park always helps as well. Should probably have the signing section behind the goals as well.

:thumbsup:

[GreenCastle]

Where were all these noisy, vibrant fans today then?

Were they all in other parts of the stadium having a silent protest about not getting to stand behind the goals?

:dunno:

Or is it just that we've not got a particularly noisy support

Were you at ER today?

If so then what did you think of the away support ?

[Keith_M]

Were you at ER today?

If so then what did you think of the away support ?



Yes, and what's that got to do with our fans being quiet?

[hibsbollah]

It’s quite a while since I was at ER for various reasons, and I was really surprised by how quiet it was. Motherwell isn’t a glamour fixture so you don’t expect it to be bouncing but it wasn’t good at all. The ultras tucked away in the corner need to get behind the FF goal, it’s so obvious.

[SteveHFC]

Yes, and what's that got to do with our fans being quiet?

Perhaps if the product on the pitch was better the fans would be louder..

[GreenCastle]

Yes, and what's that got to do with our fans being quiet?

What do you think of the away support ?

Do you think Hibs could achieve similar ?

[GlasgowHibs]

Motherwell fans were noisy today. Pretty much non stop for the whole game. Certainly out sang us (not a big ask though). Not sure why one of our "ultras" got huckled by the cops around the 70 minute mark.

[Helensburghhibs]

Motherwell fans were noisy today. Pretty much non stop for the whole game. Certainly out sang us (not a big ask though). Not sure why one of our "ultras" got huckled by the cops around the 70 minute mark.

Probably because the idiots decided to let off another pointless smoke bomb for no reason

[Sean1875]

Motherwell fans were noisy today. Pretty much non stop for the whole game. Certainly out sang us (not a big ask though). Not sure why one of our "ultras" got huckled by the cops around the 70 minute mark.

Seen a few reports on Twitter of them fighting with other Hibs fans too, **** knows what’s going on with them.


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[GlasgowHibs]

Probably because the idiots decided to let off another pointless smoke bomb for no reason

Was that what it was? I looked up across and saw two of Police Scotland's finest struggling with a young guy over in that little ultra corner. Must have missed the smoke show.

[HibeeHibernian4]

Makes me wish for the days of Since 1875. If the club had been a little bit more imaginative (cheaper tickets allowing standing trialling Famous 5 lower section) we could have had something great. Instead a vacuum has opened up and block seven are not cutting it.

[Chorley Hibee]

Probably because the idiots decided to let off another pointless smoke bomb for no reason

The police had no issue with the pyrotechnic show in the South stand on Wednesday night though, or the hundreds of huns who keep forcing their way into ER without tickets.

Looks like they're policing certain fans to different standards once again.

[Allant1981]

Probably because the idiots decided to let off another pointless smoke bomb for no reason

It was bloody stinking as well

[AFKA5814_Hibs]

Bunch of rockets, though. Had the pleasure of their company on way back up Easter Road.

Me too. Right behind them all singing If you hate the f***** Hibees clap your hands. The reason they were noisy was due to them being pished and/or coked up. Atmosphere today in the Hibs end not helped by the many missing home fans.

[FitbaFolkKen]

Motherwell fans were awesome, although they need to expand their songbook.

Stadium was flat “15k”, looked closer to 10/11


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[WhileTheChief..]

Perhaps if the product on the pitch was better the fans would be louder..

This. It’s the only thing that matters.

Natural Order game was probably the best for atmosphere in the last 10 years or so and the FF was bouncing.

Anything the club tries to do is just plastic, fake crap. Atmosphere is organic and spontaneous and is generated by what we see on the pitch or to a lesser extent during the build up to a game.

We never get that now though. It was great with Lennon / Levein for example. Now we’re just respectful and pally with everyone.

[Alfred E Newman]

What do you think of the away support ?

Do you think Hibs could achieve similar ?

Were you at the semi final? :dunno:

[LaMotta]

Where were all these noisy, vibrant fans today then?

Were they all in other parts of the stadium having a silent protest about not getting to stand behind the goals?

:dunno:

Or is it just that we've not got a particularly noisy support

They were in the away end. All grouped together. Visually and vocally entertaining.

Imagine the same equivalent in the FF lower:wink:

[GreenCastle]

Were you at the semi final? :dunno:

Yes - fans standing and singing.

Not sure what your point is ?

[Alfred E Newman]

Yes - fans standing and singing.

Not sure what your point is ?

Just answering your question and it’s , yes we can.

[NAE NOOKIE]

What happens on the pitch can certainly contribute to an atmosphere, I've been in crowds of around 9000 at ER where the atmosphere was fantastic coz Hibs had made a storming comeback or just played really well and pumped in a few goals. But the truth is times like that are few and far between and are memorable because of it.

The discussion to be had is how we improve the atmosphere for games like yesterdays, IE about 80% of all the games played at ER, where Hibs aren't smacking goals in or staging a storming comeback. That's why the FF lower comes up all the time, this club needs a visible and sustainable standing area where the folk who are prepared to sing and wave flags and stuff irrespective of the size of the crowd or how the game is going can go.

The areas the 'ultras' have been punted to all around the stadium have all had one thing in common, they have all been small parts of a larger area. The front of the east, the back of the east, a block in the corner of the FF upper, the far corner of the east. What they have never had is a self contained part of the stadium to call their own, which is exactly what the FF lower would be. IMO the lack of that allied to their lack of a prominent position is why the ultras group under whatever guise has had a problem increasing its numbers.

I am convinced that if the whole of the FF lower was given over to the ultras or wannabe ultras their numbers would grow to the extent that even for games like yesterday eventually you would have at least 1000 people in the FF lower for most games making a noise that perhaps other parts of the stadium would be inclined to join in with. STs and walkups for the FF lower would be just that, no seat allocation but simply FF lower. This could be a huge success and lift ER out of the gloom ... all Hibs need to do is have the vision to give it a go and now is the time to try it because the evidence is there and growing all the time that the FF lower 'family section' has had it's day.

If the family section was rammed all the time to at least 80% capacity then ok you could see the argument for denying the ultras the area they have always craved .... but it isn't, in fact nowhere near it, on a consistently regular basis and it's becoming harder and harder to see the justification for keeping it as a family section at the expense of what it could be.

[A Hi-Bee]

They tell me the atmosphere is no very good on Mars either, put the product on the pitch and the supporters will back it no problem and it aint rocket science.
GGTTH

[Pretty Boy]

I feel a bit sorry for the Block Seven guys.

Section 43/Since 1875 went through similar when they first started out. A few people trying to hijack the group for their own ends and going all in with the pyro, dodgy songs and so on. The former group got a grip on it and grew into something positive, hopefully this lot can do the same.

They have denied any involvement directly with the pyro and the IRA song. It appears they are suggesting the 'fighting' was them trying to call out the culprits who had made their way into the section. 3 sides to every story and all that, one, the other and the truth.

The biggest issue they have is they are too few in number, too quiet and too far out the way. It was far from the full Motherwell end making a noise but the group of 50 or so stood together never shut up and it carried. Even after we scored they never took a break, in fact it seemed to inspire them to be even louder.

[Keith_M]

Going on the earlier comments about the noise from the Motherwell fans has given me an idea....


How about we hire them to come to Easter Road more often and sing some songs for us. They don't seem to mind when their team isn't playing so well and just keep singing anyway, even when they're losing.


That's the kind of attitude we're missing and I for one would be willing to donate a tenner to any fund to get them on board.

:wink:

[Since90+2]

They were in the away end. All grouped together. Visually and vocally entertaining.

Imagine the same equivalent in the FF lower:wink:

Exactly. And how many fans did they have making that noise? 50?

I don't think it's inconceivable that if Hibs promoted the FF lower as the safe standing / signing section of that you could get atleast 250-300 young guys involved. If 50 Motherwell can make a decent racket, what could 250 Hibees do?

[Since90+2]

Going on the earlier comments about the noise from the Motherwell fans has given me an idea....


How about we hire them to come to Easter Road more often and sing some songs for us. They don't seem to mind when their team isn't playing so well and just keep singing anyway, even when they're losing.


That's the kind of attitude we're missing and I for one would be willing to donate a tenner to any fund to get them on board.

:wink:

Motherwell fans just keep singing whilst losing at Fir Park? Did you go to the first game of the season at Fir Park?

[wookie70]

The FF lower is possibly the emptiest it has been since it was built. I am against it costing money to turn it into a standing area but if the club can change the family tickets to be available in any stand then it should allow those who want to move into that area to do, it should only take 50 or so seats going by yesterday. If they can create an atmosphere, doubt it myself, then they could have a case for making it a standing area. If nothing else it might stop the debate on here. One thing that should not happen is that any singing section or other group is given preference for a seat at ER.

[Keith_M]

Motherwell fans just keep singing whilst losing at Fir Park? Did you go to the first game of the season at Fir Park?


Yes I was there, and I was replying in the context of the praise they were given for yesterday's 'performance'

I have to admit that I'm confused as to the viewpoint that, while fifty fans can make a decent noise in the South Lower, 3,000 fans can't make a noise in the East Stand.

Is there some miraculous acoustic quality that not only increases the volume but also makes them keep singing even when they're losing or not playing well?

[LaMotta]

The FF lower is possibly the emptiest it has been since it was built. I am against it costing money to turn it into a standing area but if the club can change the family tickets to be available in any stand then it should allow those who want to move into that area to do, it should only take 50 or so seats going by yesterday. If they can create an atmosphere, doubt it myself, then they could have a case for making it a standing area. If nothing else it might stop the debate on here. One thing that should not happen is that any singing section or other group is given preference for a seat at ER.

Families currently get preference for a seat directly behind the goal so it already happens.

[Since90+2]

Yes I was there, and I was replying in the context of the praise they were given for yesterday's 'performance'

I have to admit that I'm confused as to the viewpoint that, while fifty fans can make a decent noise in the South Lower, 3,000 fans can't make a noise in the East Stand.

Is there some miraculous acoustic quality that not only increases the volume but also makes them keep singing even when they're losing or not playing well?

You're comparing apples and pears though. I believe a properly promoted and pushed FF lower as the dedicated home of our young and passionate supporters would get sufficient take up to make it successful.

You are not as persuaded as others on this, as you've made very clear over the years and continue to do, I tend to think we do have the potential for a vocal support if given the correct conditions for it to grow. Let's remember that the Green Brigade started as a group of less than 100 and they now have membership running into the thousands. What we have at the moment is not the ceiling, it's the start of what could and in my opinion would grow organically into something bigger. That's exactly what happened at Ibrox and Celtic Park. Going by your viewpoint Celtic Park should have been an absolute cauldron of atmosphere every game with 60,000 fans there. It wasn't. Even their own fans admit it was a morgue before a dedicated singing and safe standing area was created. I believe Hibs fans are capable of doing the same, you don't seem to think the same with your previous comment about not being a vocal support. Everyone is entitled to their opinion but it's not one I'd personally label at Hibs.

One thing is for certain, if we keep plodding along as we are nothing will change. Personally, I'd like us to take that chance rather than not.

[wookie70]

Families currently get preference for a seat directly behind the goal so it already happens. Fair point but I would view it as them only being allowed in one area of the ground at that rate. I sat there for years and as soon as the kids were too old for the discount I moved to better seats.

[Bridge hibs]

You're comparing apples and pears though. I believe a properly promoted and pushed FF lower as the dedicated home of our young and passionate supporters would get sufficient take up to make it successful.

You are not as persuaded as others on this, as you've made very clear over the years and continue to do, I tend to think we do have the potential for a vocal support if given the correct conditions for it to grow. Let's remember that the Green Brigade started as a group of less than 100 and they now have membership running into the thousands. What we have at the moment is not the ceiling, it's the start of what could and in my opinion would grow organically into something bigger. That's exactly what happened at Ibrox and Celtic Park.

One thing is for certain, if we keep plodding along as we are nothing will change. Personally, I'd like us to take that chance rather than not.So by the same token why cant the same be done in the east ? Surely by the same means that group could grow and move along the east, a whole stand with around 5/6000 bouncing around with flags etc would be more noisy and intimidating than 1500 or whatever the FF lower holds

[LaMotta]

You're comparing apples and pears though. I believe a properly promoted and pushed FF lower as the dedicated home of our young and passionate supporters would get sufficient take up to make it successful.

You are not as persuaded as others on this, as you've made very clear over the years and continue to do, I tend to think we do have the potential for a vocal support if given the correct conditions for it to grow. Let's remember that the Green Brigade started as a group of less than 100 and they now have membership running into the thousands. What we have at the moment is not the ceiling, it's the start of what could and in my opinion would grow organically into something bigger. That's exactly what happened at Ibrox and Celtic Park. Going by your viewpoint Celtic Park should have been an absolute cauldron of atmosphere every game with 60,000 fans there. It wasn't. Even their own fans admit it was a morgue before a dedicated signing and safe standing area was created. I believe Hibs fans are capable of doing the same, you don't seem to think the same with your previous comment about not being a vocal support. Everyone is entitled to their opinion but it's not one I'd personally label at Hibs.

One thing is for certain, if we keep plodding along as we are nothing will change. Personally, I'd like us to take that chance rather than not.

Good post - agree with all that. I think its pretty clear that maintaining the status quo is not an option.

[HibeeHibernian4]

Is there some miraculous acoustic quality that not only increases the volume but also makes them keep singing even when they're losing or not playing well?

If we're being honest smartphones have a lot to answer for. The sort of fan who attends Easter Road now seems to enjoy more time on the phone checking scores at other grounds or quietly grumbling to the person next to them about something (often unrelated from the game).
Does make you why people bother coming along but then again thats just me. :confused:

[HibeeHibernian4]

So by the same token why cant the same be done in the east ? Surely by the same means that group could grow and move along the east, a whole stand with around 5/6000 bouncing around with flags etc would be more noisy and intimidating than 1500 or whatever the FF lower holds

Because the oh so important gold season ticket holders have paid for their seat and won't be moved by a singing section nor are they the type to bounce around with flags as you put it. The singing moving from the top of 43 all those years ago has ruined any chance of that happening now. The bairn canny see and all that. The east is the new west unfortunately with a lot of our fans.

[LaMotta]

So by the same token why cant the same be done in the east ? Surely by the same means that group could grow and move along the east, a whole stand with around 5/6000 bouncing around with flags etc would be more noisy and intimidating than 1500 or whatever the FF lower holds

Because getting 6k people to do that is pretty unlikely. The best chance of success if in the FF lower with realistic numbers.

Barring the couple of years following the cup win where we achieved average attendances that hadn't been bettered for over half a century, the 20k stadium has generally been a bit too big for us.

[Bridge hibs]

Because getting 6k people to do that is pretty unlikely. The best chance of success if in the FF lower with realistic numbers.

Barring the couple of years following the cup win where we achieved average attendances that hadn't been bettered for over half a century, the 20k stadium has generally been a bit too big for us.Yeah but surely it needs time to bed, let it grow organically. When I was in the old east there was a group under the gantry who made plenty noise and that would spread the length of the enclosure, given time we have a whole stand that hopefully a few would join in and it would increase in size/volume etc

The old east enclosure was always an intimidating and noisy place, look at the footage of us all rammed in there when Souness and co came to town 🤣

[Since90+2]

Yeah but surely it needs time to bed, let it grow organically. When I was in the old east there was a group under the gantry who made plenty noise and that would spread the length of the enclosure, given time we have a whole stand that hopefully a few would join in and it would increase in size/volume etc

The old east enclosure was always an intimidating and noisy place, look at the footage of us all rammed in there when Souness and co came to town 🤣

It was also almost exclusively standing. About 90% of the current east stand sits.

[Iggy Pope]

Going on the earlier comments about the noise from the Motherwell fans has given me an idea....


How about we hire them to come to Easter Road more often and sing some songs for us. They don't seem to mind when their team isn't playing so well and just keep singing anyway, even when they're losing.


That's the kind of attitude we're missing and I for one would be willing to donate a tenner to any fund to get them on board.

:wink:

If they insist on singing the same one over and over they and Belinda Carlisle can GTF.

[The Wireless]

What happens on the pitch can certainly contribute to an atmosphere, I've been in crowds of around 9000 at ER where the atmosphere was fantastic coz Hibs had made a storming comeback or just played really well and pumped in a few goals. But the truth is times like that are few and far between and are memorable because of it.

The discussion to be had is how we improve the atmosphere for games like yesterdays, IE about 80% of all the games played at ER, where Hibs aren't smacking goals in or staging a storming comeback. That's why the FF lower comes up all the time, this club needs a visible and sustainable standing area where the folk who are prepared to sing and wave flags and stuff irrespective of the size of the crowd or how the game is going can go.

The areas the 'ultras' have been punted to all around the stadium have all had one thing in common, they have all been small parts of a larger area. The front of the east, the back of the east, a block in the corner of the FF upper, the far corner of the east. What they have never had is a self contained part of the stadium to call their own, which is exactly what the FF lower would be. IMO the lack of that allied to their lack of a prominent position is why the ultras group under whatever guise has had a problem increasing its numbers.

I am convinced that if the whole of the FF lower was given over to the ultras or wannabe ultras their numbers would grow to the extent that even for games like yesterday eventually you would have at least 1000 people in the FF lower for most games making a noise that perhaps other parts of the stadium would be inclined to join in with. STs and walkups for the FF lower would be just that, no seat allocation but simply FF lower. This could be a huge success and lift ER out of the gloom ... all Hibs need to do is have the vision to give it a go and now is the time to try it because the evidence is there and growing all the time that the FF lower 'family section' has had it's day.

If the family section was rammed all the time to at least 80% capacity then ok you could see the argument for denying the ultras the area they have always craved .... but it isn't, in fact nowhere near it, on a consistently regular basis and it's becoming harder and harder to see the justification for keeping it as a family section at the expense of what it could be.
Absolutely spot on. Move all the existing in the lower FF to the upper FF as it has a better view and show a bit of common sense and get this off and running from next season.

[Lago]

Because getting 6k people to do that is pretty unlikely. The best chance of success if in the FF lower with realistic numbers.

Barring the couple of years following the cup win where we achieved average attendances that hadn't been bettered for over half a century, the 20k stadium has generally been a bit too big for us.
I think your last point about stadium size is valid, therefore is there an argument to look at ways to reduce the capacity of Easter Road?

[Nicho87]

Famous five lower is the place for any future group / ultras to go to.

An example of this was when they went from upper to lower at half time against Caley I think before lockdown.

Must of been couple hundred, sounded and looked so much better

As other poster said

The family section has finished, low numbers, empty seats.

Shift them upstairs and get the safe standing in there with the ultras.

Hibs official please read these comments and be active

Easter road is like a library these days

[matty_f]

Famous five lower is the place for any future group / ultras to go to.

An example of this was when they went from upper to lower at half time against Caley I think before lockdown.

Must of been couple hundred, sounded and looked so much better

As other poster said

The family section has finished, low numbers, empty seats.

Shift them upstairs and get the safe standing in there with the ultras.

Hibs official please read these comments and be active

Easter road is like a library these days

Based on recent issues with, apparently, the new singing section with violence, IRA songs, drinking in the stadium and throwing smoke bombs, i can’t think of any good reason why the club would humour them at all, let alone go out their way to give them the FF lower.

[tmb1875]

So you’ve just decided that was all attributed to the new group then? Let’s not have a new designated area for the most vocal fans or people who want to stand at the game because some hibs fans are ********s. In any group of people your going to get a few bams. That’s up to the club to steward and fellow fans to a certain degree.


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[matty_f]

So you’ve just decided that was all attributed to the new group then? Let’s not have a new designated area for the most vocal fans or people who want to stand at the game because some hibs fans are ********s. In any group of people your going to get a few bams. That’s up to the club to steward and fellow fans to a certain degree.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I’ve not decided anything.

[tmb1875]

Ok apparently then!


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[matty_f]

Ok apparently then!


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Yes. Apparently there are issues with that group that, imho, would make the club not want to entertain a section to house them in the FF lower.

[tmb1875]

You don’t know who it was carrying out the misdemeanours you noted so let’s not be hammering the new group for that. If you want to blame them for something there guilty of a poor 1st attempt at a tifo but hats off to them for giving up time and money to try and get something going, the more experience they get the better the group will be.


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[matty_f]

You don’t know who it was carrying out the misdemeanours you noted so let’s not be hammering the new group for that. If you want to blame them for something there guilty of a poor 1st attempt at a tifo but hats off to them for giving up time and money to try and get something going, the more experience they get the better the group will be.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I don’t want to blame them for anything, but - apparently - there have been issues with songs about the IRA, smoke bombs and some fighting from around that group. If that wasn’t them, fair enough.

Hats off to folk for making a display, that’s great, it doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be called out for the other stuff that’s being associated with them at the moment.

[IncredibleHibee]

I don’t want to blame them for anything, but - apparently - there have been issues with songs about the IRA, smoke bombs and some fighting from around that group. If that wasn’t them, fair enough.

Hats off to folk for making a display, that’s great, it doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be called out for the other stuff that’s being associated with them at the moment.

You can’t ‘call them out’ if you don’t know if it was them.

[tmb1875]

I don’t want to blame them for anything, but - apparently - there have been issues with songs about the IRA, smoke bombs and some fighting from around that group. If that wasn’t them, fair enough.

Hats off to folk for making a display, that’s great, it doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be called out for the other stuff that’s being associated with them at the moment.

That’s all I’m saying, if they’re in the wrong fair do’s. it’s hear say that they are to blame unless there is evidence to back up claims. Just Because someone said it on hibs.net shouldn’t be taken as the gospel.


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[matty_f]

That’s all I’m saying, if they’re in the wrong fair do’s. it’s hear say that they are to blame unless there is evidence to back up claims. Just Because someone said it on hibs.net shouldn’t be taken as the gospel.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

There were multiple sources, including some people i know who saw it first hand.

[matty_f]

You can’t ‘call them out’ if you don’t know if it was them.

:aok:

[IncredibleHibee]

There were multiple sources, including some people i know who saw it first hand.

So what did they see?

[IncredibleHibee]

:aok:

🤡

[matty_f]

So what did they see?

Stuff already mentioned on the thread.

[GreenCastle]

So by the same token why cant the same be done in the east ? Surely by the same means that group could grow and move along the east, a whole stand with around 5/6000 bouncing around with flags etc would be more noisy and intimidating than 1500 or whatever the FF lower holds

This just isn’t going to happen in the East. While the East isn’t the new west it does have many supporters who are just happy having a good view of the game. Nothing wrong with keeping a singing section in the East but I would rather have a Motherwell size group making 90 mins of noise then no noise at all.

The FF lower would allow a space where flags / displays / drums etc could be stored / waved etc.

Would the FF upper be difficult for parents with kids to go up the stairs if it moved there ?

Hibs have to start thinking about this soon and make a change - especially when new season ticket information comes out.

If they release ST info and there is no change - someone isn’t doing their job properly and understanding the issues and potential to improve ER.

[Bridge hibs]

This just isn’t going to happen in the East. While the East isn’t the new west it does have many supporters who are just happy having a good view of the game. Nothing wrong with keeping a singing section in the East but I would rather have a Motherwell size group making 90 mins of noise then no noise at all.

The FF lower would allow a space where flags / displays / drums etc could be stored / waved etc.

Would the FF upper be difficult for parents with kids to go up the stairs if it moved there ?

Hibs have to start thinking about this soon and make a change - especially when new season ticket information comes out.

If they release ST info and there is no change - someone isn’t doing their job properly and understanding the issues and potential to improve ER.That Motherwell sized group are also sited in a similar position at Fir Park and normally make plenty noise, why cant our supporters do the same ? I agree that fans have paid up for good seats in the East and wont want to shift either, whether it be one or two seats or blocks, why then should fans in the lower FF have to face the same situation, whether that be FF upper or the West wings

I was in the FF lower for a while when the kids were younger, I was upper first and then moved to lower before moving again. Whatever happens it has to suit all parties and at a time where we are struggling to get bums on seats throughout the entire stadium we dont want to be pissing off groups of fans

Im sure whatever the plans are they will be met with challenges and the marketing folk will have to be on the ball. I think we all want the same thing, cant beat Easter Road when its rocking

[GreenCastle]

That Motherwell sized group are also sited in a similar position at Fir Park and normally make plenty noise, why cant our supporters do the same ? I agree that fans have paid up for good seats in the East and wont want to shift either, whether it be one or two seats or blocks, why then should fans in the lower FF have to face the same situation, whether that be FF upper or the West wings

I was in the FF lower for a while when the kids were younger, I was upper first and then moved to lower before moving again. Whatever happens it has to suit all parties and at a time where we are struggling to get bums on seats throughout the entire stadium we dont want to be pissing off groups of fans

Im sure whatever the plans are they will be met with challenges and the marketing folk will have to be on the ball. I think we all want the same thing, cant beat Easter Road when its rocking

I think you make fair points but I think Motherwell have family section behind their goal?

I don’t know the exact number of ST in FF lower but looking at the stadium seating plan you can roughly work it out.

Add in the fact folk just aren’t turning up. Now you could say Hibs don’t mind as they have the money but I think we have to look at the bigger picture to benefit the whole stadium experience which they keep talking about.

Those in FF lower would get first pick of any new seats and even possibly a discount to renew and move elsewhere to new family section (south / lower west / east corner / ff upper) or a seat in another part of stadium.

I’ve sat in FF lower and it wasn’t as family friendly as you would expect. Several parents swearing and yelling regularly.

I hope Hibs do feeeback or some research and ask what fans want before new ST information is released.

There is also an issue just now - what does Gold ST really get you? Are they doing monthly draws ? Free training session ? I don’t see any benefits except a central seat which currently isn’t making much difference as loads of empty seats and some fans move into empty seats.

[ABZHFC]

That Motherwell sized group are also sited in a similar position at Fir Park and normally make plenty noise, why cant our supporters do the same ? I agree that fans have paid up for good seats in the East and wont want to shift either, whether it be one or two seats or blocks, why then should fans in the lower FF have to face the same situation, whether that be FF upper or the West wings

I was in the FF lower for a while when the kids were younger, I was upper first and then moved to lower before moving again. Whatever happens it has to suit all parties and at a time where we are struggling to get bums on seats throughout the entire stadium we dont want to be pissing off groups of fans

Im sure whatever the plans are they will be met with challenges and the marketing folk will have to be on the ball. I think we all want the same thing, cant beat Easter Road when its rocking

If the East Stand was the same height as their side stand, I'd agree it could be easily done. Problem is our East is so big, so even if you have 20 or so folk standing and singing all game (particularly down the front) it just gets lost and doesn't really carry much. The ideal place (short of the FF Lower) would be the top of 43 again, but it seems like fewer and fewer singers are up there these days. If I was Hibs, I'd advertise 43, 44 and 45 as the 'atmosphere' parts of the ground, and advise season ticket holders/walk-ups buying there that they can expect to be standing for 90 minutes there. The atmosphere - even in recent games - has been night and day when the majority of 43/44 have been standing too

[Bushwoof]

At the end of the day, sitting down doesn't lend itself to singing. And neither does having big gaps of empty seats. Singing is a communal thing, and people need to be together for it to happen.
Apart from that, the seat pricing means that the boisterous young fans who are most up for a singalong have been replaced by more affluent older supporters.

It would help if we were winning regularly in an entertaining manner, and the absentee ST holders turned up, but I can't see the atmosphere returning until we get a safe standing area.

[happiehibbie]

we need something to sing about.

I am also getting to old to sing.

only certain games will create atmosphere

[007]

If the East Stand was the same height as their side stand, I'd agree it could be easily done. Problem is our East is so big, so even if you have 20 or so folk standing and singing all game (particularly down the front) it just gets lost and doesn't really carry much. The ideal place (short of the FF Lower) would be the top of 43 again, but it seems like fewer and fewer singers are up there these days. If I was Hibs, I'd advertise 43, 44 and 45 as the 'atmosphere' parts of the ground, and advise season ticket holders/walk-ups buying there that they can expect to be standing for 90 minutes there. The atmosphere - even in recent games - has been night and day when the majority of 43/44 have been standing too

I doubt the club can be seen to be saying there's an area where you can expect to be standing when it isn't a proper safe standing area.

[theonlywayisup]

Slight change of topic, but watching the Brentford - Watford game, the place was jumping well after the final whistle. Despite being 1-0 down until the 84th minute, no-one appeared to be 'sneaking out'. Then Brentford score two goals in the final few minutes to win the game. As the Brentford players and manager go round the pitchside at the end, it looked as if not one fan left their seat to move towards the exit. Contrast that with Easter Road, when people leave early and there's the rush to the exit. Even after a Derby win, there is the rush to the exit.

[son of haggart]

Slight change of topic, but watching the Brentford - Watford game, the place was jumping well after the final whistle. Despite being 1-0 down until the 84th minute, no-one appeared to be 'sneaking out'. Then Brentford score two goals in the final few minutes to win the game. As the Brentford players and manager go round the pitchside at the end, it looked as if not one fan left their seat to move towards the exit. Contrast that with Easter Road, when people leave early and there's the rush to the exit. Even after a Derby win, there is the rush to the exit.

Brentford's atmosphere is helped by having a good pub at every corner of the ground - terrific place to watch a game

[Lancs Harp]

Brentford's atmosphere is helped by having a good pub at every corner of the ground - terrific place to watch a game

They have moved since Griffin park mate. Was one of the best away days on the circuit.

[Iggy Pope]

Brentford's atmosphere is helped by having a good pub at every corner of the ground - terrific place to watch a game

Not now unless you’re still in one of them!

[son of haggart]

They have moved since Griffin park mate. Was one of the best away days on the circuit.

That's what happens when you get old and move away from London!

Was there in about 2012 with a bunch of Germans - crazy night in the pub which ended with the Germans up on stage doing Mass Marlene Deitrich impressions and singing their national anthem.....:banana:

[Shrekko]

Slight change of topic, but watching the Brentford - Watford game, the place was jumping well after the final whistle. Despite being 1-0 down until the 84th minute, no-one appeared to be 'sneaking out'. Then Brentford score two goals in the final few minutes to win the game. As the Brentford players and manager go round the pitchside at the end, it looked as if not one fan left their seat to move towards the exit. Contrast that with Easter Road, when people leave early and there's the rush to the exit. Even after a Derby win, there is the rush to the exit.

Was thinking the same tonight 👍

What a great night those fans had - staying past the full time whistle to celebrate with their team. At ER even after a win the ground is pretty much empty by the time the players have shaken hands and getting ready to applaud the fans. Our mass clear out starts at about 78 minutes or if we got 2 goals down. We don’t seem to score many late goals funnily enough …

[heretoday]

Easter Road is not great for atmos, that's for sure.

[theonlywayisup]

Was thinking the same tonight ��

What a great night those fans had - staying past the full time whistle to celebrate with their team. At ER even after a win the ground is pretty much empty by the time the players have shaken hands and getting ready to applaud the fans. Our mass clear out starts at about 78 minutes or if we got 2 goals down. We don’t seem to score many late goals funnily enough …

Yes, funny that. Does "fans leave early" equate to "lack of high tempo ending to games". Taking that a bit further does "lack of fans in the stands at the start of the game" equate to "low tempo starts to games".

There have been lots of great fans led initiatives over the years, but how about each individual fan making a little bit more effort to be in the ground and at their seat at 2:45pm on a Saturday afternoon, instead of making that late dash from the boozer. And postpone the leaving the seated area until after the game. Surely, that's not too much to ask.

I'm not a singer, but even me shouting encouragement all helps. It's increasing the decibel levels with whatever helps to create the sound of noise. Banging a drum or singing melodic songs about Paul Hanlon alone won't create that noise. It's each and every fan shouting, chanting and singing from the rafters. Let's make some noise; if only!

[DIXIHIBS]

The leaving early seems to be getting worse. I live about 15 mins walk from easter road yet i see 2 of my close neighbours leave on about 80/85 mins every week. They are not leaving to miss traffic etc because they walk home. More and more are doing this. Must be difficult for the players seeing this. I get it if we are 3 down with 10 mins to go but not when we are chasing games. Lets cheer them to the end. Its our team, support them.

[Keith_M]

Brentford's atmosphere is helped by having a good pub at every corner of the ground - terrific place to watch a game


Get everybody p1ssed. Now that sounds like a plan!

:greengrin

[B.H.F.C]

Was thinking the same tonight 👍

What a great night those fans had - staying past the full time whistle to celebrate with their team. At ER even after a win the ground is pretty much empty by the time the players have shaken hands and getting ready to applaud the fans. Our mass clear out starts at about 78 minutes or if we got 2 goals down. We don’t seem to score many late goals funnily enough …

Amazing what can happen when there is something worth watching on the pitch…

[theonlywayisup]

Amazing what can happen when there is something worth watching on the pitch…

I think your missing the point being made. Even after a thrilling win, the players have hardly shook hands with the referee and there's a dash to the stairwell and exit. Last night, Brentford were going round the pitch long after the final whistle and it looked as if the majority were in their seated area. That was after Brentford had been one down up until the 84th minute. That never happens at Easter Road (fans staying to applaud their team well after the final whistle), exciting game or not.

[Steven79]

I think your missing the point being made. Even after a thrilling win, the players have hardly shook hands with the referee and there's a dash to the stairwell and exit. Last night, Brentford were going round the pitch long after the final whistle and it looked as if the majority were in their seated area. That was after Brentford had been one down up until the 84th minute. That never happens at Easter Road (fans staying to applaud their team well after the final whistle), exciting game or not.Has that always been the case say in the 70's and 80',s?

Sent from my SM-G960F using Tapatalk

[Smartie]

I think your missing the point being made. Even after a thrilling win, the players have hardly shook hands with the referee and there's a dash to the stairwell and exit. Last night, Brentford were going round the pitch long after the final whistle and it looked as if the majority were in their seated area. That was after Brentford had been one down up until the 84th minute. That never happens at Easter Road (fans staying to applaud their team well after the final whistle), exciting game or not.

Do you not think it’s a bit like comparing apples and oranges comparing us to Brentford though?

They just secured a great result at a higher level than they’ve been at in donkeys. Of course their fans will be ecstatic.

It’s arguably the equivalent of a good European result for Hibs - when our fans would be more than happy to acclaim the team.

SoL under the lights after a huge game is the envy of many clubs - and we have it to ourselves.

[B.H.F.C]

I think your missing the point being made. Even after a thrilling win, the players have hardly shook hands with the referee and there's a dash to the stairwell and exit. Last night, Brentford were going round the pitch long after the final whistle and it looked as if the majority were in their seated area. That was after Brentford had been one down up until the 84th minute. That never happens at Easter Road (fans staying to applaud their team well after the final whistle), exciting game or not.

Na, no having that. There are always gaps in home supports (no just ER) come full time. If we scored a 95th minute winner the place would be jumping. There just haven’t been very many thrilling wins to really get folk going. Regarding it never happening I must have been imagining those times that we’ve stood singing Sunshine on Leith at full time etc in the past. Slightly different as not at ER but nobody was dashing for the exits at full time at Hampden. Remember similar at Fir Park first day of the season. What they had in common is that they were exciting games that got the fans involved. If it’s a routine home game then, aye, a lot of folk start leaving early even if we’re winning. Always have, always will, and no just at ER.

[theonlywayisup]

Na, no having that. There are always gaps in home supports (no just ER) come full time. If we scored a 95th minute winner the place would be jumping. There just haven’t been very many thrilling wins to really get folk going. Regarding it never happening I must have been imagining those times that we’ve stood singing Sunshine on Leith at full time etc in the past. Slightly different as not at ER but nobody was dashing for the exits at full time at Hampden. Remember similar at Fir Park first day of the season. What they had in common is that they were exciting games that got the fans involved. If it’s a routine home game then, aye, a lot of folk start leaving early even if we’re winning. Always have, always will, and no just at ER.

Who said anything about Hampden / Fir Park. I'm talking about Easter Road. So you are partly agreeing with me.:greengrin

I can only summarise what my eyes are telling; last night in a game between Brentford & Watford, hardly a massive game in terms of rivalry, it looked as if the majority of the fans hadn't left their seated areas well after the game had ended. That was also after Brentford had been 1-0 down until the 84th minute. They stayed til the end and after.

[Keith_M]

About time we did something about that East Stand. This must be embarrassing if people see this on TV


:wink:

25360
(taken at 3:05)

[The Modfather]

About time we did something about that East Stand. This must be embarrassing if people see this on TV


:wink:

25360
(taken at 3:05)

Can we buy some of the Brentford fans in January?

[Keith_M]

Can we buy some of the Brentford fans in January?



Sounds like a plan


:greengrin

[Magpie]

About time we did something about that East Stand. This must be embarrassing if people see this on TV


:wink:

25360
(taken at 3:05)

It’s a shame seeing the stadium so empty. Hopefully with a new manager and positive results we can get a bit of excitement back amongst the support and come back in numbers.

[DIXIHIBS]

It would be interesting to know how many ST holders arent turning up just now. It must seriously be thousands. Hopefully new manager etc gets them back. The problem will be next season if they dont renew.

[B.H.F.C]

Who said anything about Hampden / Fir Park. I'm talking about Easter Road. So you are partly agreeing with me.:greengrin

I can only summarise what my eyes are telling; last night in a game between Brentford & Watford, hardly a massive game in terms of rivalry, it looked as if the majority of the fans hadn't left their seated areas well after the game had ended. That was also after Brentford had been 1-0 down until the 84th minute. They stayed til the end and after.

Brentford first year in the Premier League, big win for them, fairly dramatic. Of course they were bouncing. You said ER is never like that, that’s what I disagree with. Right circumstances it has been and will be. Run of the mill league win it won’t be, same as the majority of other places.

[Keith_M]

It’s a shame seeing the stadium so empty. Hopefully with a new manager and positive results we can get a bit of excitement back amongst the support and come back in numbers.


:agree:


I honestly think it's a combination of reasons (Covid, weather, results) but it would be great if people were enticed back to games with some decent results, and maybe some exciting January signings.

[LaMotta]

I think your missing the point being made. Even after a thrilling win, the players have hardly shook hands with the referee and there's a dash to the stairwell and exit. Last night, Brentford were going round the pitch long after the final whistle and it looked as if the majority were in their seated area. That was after Brentford had been one down up until the 84th minute. That never happens at Easter Road (fans staying to applaud their team well after the final whistle), exciting game or not.

I know it doesn't happen often - but its unfair to say it never happens as this magnificent video shows:

https://twitter.com/Barlosthecat/status/1361619501704503297