Advice for fans ahead of Saturday
Saturday will be a fantastic occasion with a sell out crowd coming along to see the U’s take on Newcastle United. A capacity crowd means plenty of hard work for the steward and safety team and we asked Interim Safety Officer Ian Mixter to bring us up to speed with arrangements for Saturday.
Ian told us
“We have had meetings with supporters groups over the last few weeks and I would like to stick to my promise of better communication with supporters on crowd management issues ahead of matches, especially such a big game as Saturday. There are several things we would like to make fans aware of.
“We have introduced a new system behind the North Stand this season called the ‘Rapid Expansion System’. To simplify, it’s a fence that can be put in place at certain games and will be in operation to ensure segregation behind the North Stand from 1pm on Saturday.
“We would like to thank Oxford fans for their patience and suggest that they park at the East end of the ground if they are in the North Stand, rather than walk the long way round from 1pm and after the game.
“With a sold out away end and a large number of Newcastle supporters coaches expected it will mean tight parking of the coaches so we’d also suggest supporters on foot avoid that area.
“We have worked very hard to ensure that as many Oxford fans as possible can stay in their usual season tickets seats, with Newcastle’s allocation higher in the FA Cup than most away teams are allocated for league games. I’d like to thank Mick Brown and Greig Box Turnbull in particular for their help in the installation of new segregation doors under the North Stand which will be in operation for the first time.
“Soft ticket checks will be in operation in the North Home areas- supporters are requested to check they have the correct type of ticket prior to match day to support their smooth entry to the Stadium. This will ensure there is no abuse of ticketing policy as has previously occurred on high profile fixtures.
“To help fans get to their allocated seat, staff will be position in the North & East Stands prior to kick off. They will be happy to help with any enquiries as fans find their seats.
“For clarity, small flags & balloons are welcome, as always. Supporters with larger flags on telescopic poles should contact match day staff on entry to confirm ground regulations. This restates existing policy, to avoid any misunderstanding.
“If we have one over all message it is to respect fellow supporters . This should be a great occasion for both clubs and the largest away crowd for a while is expected. Supporters are requested to work with match day staff to make it an enjoyable experience for all, particularly around the segregation line. Let’s work together to show the best values of OUFC as a family club with fantastic support.”
The Football Special buses and the additional vehicle on the OX3 route will be running for this game and provide easy transport to matches.
Click here for timetables and routes.
If you are driving to the game please park legally to avoid parking fines on the roads around the stadium.