Fans upset at high cost of pre season friendlies

Last updated : 06 June 2009 By Michael Morris
In a statement issued today, Cardiff City Supporters' Trust board member Dave Sugarman said:

"The feedback we have been getting indicates a large percentage of City fans are upset about the cost of tickets for the forthcoming matches against Celtic and Valencia.

"By setting such high prices for friendly games, it seems the club is attempting to take advantage of its loyal supporters, many of whom have already spent hundreds of pounds on season tickets.

"In recent years, fans have been able to buy tickets for friendlies at Ninian Park against teams like Udinese, Lazio and Ajax for as little as £10. The cheapest adult tickets for the Celtic match are £26, while the Valencia game will cost £20.

"That is a huge price increase, particularly in what are very difficult times for many families in South Wales.

"Some long-term City supporters fear they will soon be priced out of watching the Bluebirds at the new stadium.

"If the cost of tickets for these two pre-season friendlies is anything to go by, then it seems those fears may be justified.

"Many fans are already talking about boycotting these games on principle, while plenty more will simply be unable to afford them.

"We would therefore urge the club to reconsider its pricing policy for the Celtic and Valencia friendly matches as a matter of urgency."

The Cardiff City Supporters' Trust will be staging an open meeting at the Duke of Clarence pub in Canton on Monday evening (8th June). Fans will be given an opportunity to air their views on ticket prices and any other issues which they feel the Trust should be raising with the club.

The meeting, which starts at 7pm, will be hosted by Trust chairman Paul Corkrey and is open to non-members. Admission is free.

www.ccfctrust.org