The last two home games have seen a change in the stands with the ‘Ultras’ moving from behind the goal to Block 21 of the East Stand.
This has been done in consultation with the Safety Team at the club and with Oxvox and is currently on a trial basis. The Ultras are all about creating colour and atmosphere at games and do a fantastic job on a matchday and were looking to move to an area where they could wave flags and get behind the team but also be in a specific location which could grow and expand.
Block 21- the top left corner of the East Stand, as you look at the goal - had fewest existing season tickets and therefore a trial was suggested in that area. We have had a number of questions from fans about this move and there are some important points to be made
Many of the ‘Ultras’ are season ticket holders and transferred existing seats for available ones at the last two games. If other fans wish to join them then please either swap your existing ticket(s) to that area or purchase in those seats when booking. The club requests that those wishing to occupy Block 21 have the correct ticket relevant to their seat; to ensure compliance with the safety certificate there will be a soft ticket check in the area. Those in Block 21 not in possession of the correct seat ticket will be relocated.
Fans with existing season tickets in that area have the option of moving seats to other parts of the ground but please note that this is still a trial period.
Flags
Having a designated area of the ground means that fans who choose to buy tickets there are aware that flags may be waved and that this may obstruct their view from time to time. Flags can be waved at any time in Block 21 provided they do not obstruct the vision of any supporter outside of the ‘boundary.’ In the remainder of the stadium flags can only be waved as per the existing policy i.e. before a game, at half time, at full time or in celebration of a goal.
Drums
Existing ground regulations forbid the use of any musical instruments at games. As a trial the Ultras have had a drum at the last two games, and therefore opposition fans have also been permitted to bring in instruments (ie the trumpet v MK Dons). It is requested that use of a musical instrument is discussed with the Safety Team prior to kick off on a match by match basis. We are closely monitoring reaction and thoughts on this during the trial.
Barriers
No boundary fence is to erected at the front or sides of the area as this breaches the safety certificate due to load bearing. Banners can be hung over seats in front of the area provided the seats are not sold / occupied & the banners complies with the usual rules of fire safety and decency of message.
We welcome feedback from all fans on this. Email Supporter Liaison Officer Kath Faulkner (kfaulkner@oufc.co.uk) with your thoughts and suggestions