Manchester and Merseyside unite for common cause as they protest the increase in the prices of matchday tickets.
Manchester and Merseyside unite forces as they come together to protest increase in ticket prices.
This weekend, supporters of Everton, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester United will band together to voice their disapproval at the growing cost of tickets.
Before their sides play at Old Trafford on Sunday (13:30 GMT), Manchester United and Everton supporters will carry a ‘Stop Exploiting Loyalty’ banner in support of a Football Supporters Association (FSA) campaign.
On the same day, Liverpool will host Manchester City at 16:00 GMT, and supporters of both teams will fly banners with the same message during the match.
After raising matchday ticket prices to £66 per game in the middle of the season without offering any discounts to seniors or children, Manchester United has come under fire for allegedly taking advantage of supporters.
“The rivalry between these four clubs has been, and is, fierce. But we all go to games, love our club and want to keep football affordable for future generations while protecting heritage and communities,” said a spokesperson for Manchester United fan group FC58.
“The only way we can achieve this is collaboration. This is our first step. This movement will grow.”
Dave Kelly, from Everton Fans Supporting Foodbanks, said. “We are delighted to be standing shoulder with the Reds and Blues from Manchester and Merseyside.
“This isn’t about the colour of the shirt or the badge upon the chest. It’s consequently about the future of the beautiful game, protecting and making it affordable for all fans.”
“It’s time for clubs to remember that their wealth and success are built on the unwavering loyalty of their supporters.” Said Gareth Roberts, the spokesman of Liverpool fan group Spirit of Shankly.
“Raising prices when financial pressures on fans are at an all-time high is an insult. We’re proud to unite with fans from Manchester in this campaign to fight for fairness.”
MCFC Fans Foodbank Support spokesperson Nick Clarke said. “There’s been increasing animosity between City and Liverpool fans in recent years due to the rivalry on the pitch. So we’re incredibly proud to stand together on this important issue.
“Tribalism holds football fans back from addressing the real threats to the game we built. Working-class fans are exploited before our eyes. We can reverse this trend.”