Yesterday’s protest at Anfield may be just the start.
Thousands of Liverpool fans left the stadium in the 77th minute of the 2-2 draw against Sunderland in protest against a planned raising of ticket prices next season.
A member of the Spirit of Shankley group, one of the Liverpool supporter’s groups who organised the protest, has told the Press Association that yesterday’s protest wasn’t a one off action, and will hopefully be the start of more demonstrations against the rising costs of modern football.
“We are happy with yesterday’s demonstration and we are pleased with the number of supporters who took part,” Jay McKenna said.
“The moment which preceded the walk-out also showed the strength of feeling, with the very loud, audible chants aimed at the directors’ box. But the protest was aimed just as much at the owners because the decision of the prices is one made by Fenway Sports Group and the ownership of the club.
“It is a good indication that supporters are very angry at prices and this will just be the start of taking more action.”
The fans were protesting against planned ticket prices for next season, with some costing £77 and some season tickets over £1000.
McKenna says further discussion will take place on what action the groups will take next, and called yesterday’s protest as “unprecedented.”
“We have got Manchester City and Chelsea at Anfield so those two league matches, where prices are still going to be on the forefront of people’s minds, will be opportunities where we will discuss what action we take next.”
“For us, it is unequivocal: this is the start. A walkout of Anfield it is unprecedented, it has never happened before, and I can’t think of an occasion where it has happened in such numbers in another league ground in the UK.”
However, Liverpool chief executive Ian Ayre has said fans need to “have a look at the facts.”
“If someone who sits in a certain position where there is a £77 ticket next season but can’t afford it, we have another option for them,” Ayre said.
“No-one is being priced out of the stadium. There is a seat for everyone at the right price.”
