Blackpool disappoint Latics fans

Last updated : 10 May 2007 By The Chairman
Blackpool are set to disappointment many Latics fans as they will be unable to see the return semi-final game at Blackpool. Athletic will receive just over 1,800 tickets for the match which won't even be enough to cover all the club's season-ticket holders, let alone the travelling army. It was suggested that Blackpool could erect a temporary stand behind the goal at the 'flat' end of the ground but chairman Karl Oyston rejected the plan leaving a capacity of only 9,612.

Mr Oyston said: "We considered putting up a temporary south stand but a combination of two factors were considered before we made a decision. Our manager Simon Grayson said he preferred to kick towards an empty area rather than a stand full of away supporters. We also found it would not be commercially viable to put up a stand for just one match, and that is why we made the decision."

Blackpool have been given 3,000 tickets in the Rochdale Road end for the first leg and if all the home tickets are not sold there is the possibility of the Seasiders receiving another 1,600 tickets, although this is highly unlikely.