Source:
REUTERS/CARL RECINE
[Saba
Sports News] British media reports have indicated that numerous Manchester
United fans missed the first half-hour of a game because of problems with the
ticket checkout machine at Wigan Athletic’s stadium. Manchester United had
previously claimed a 2-0 victory over Wigan Athletic in an away match of the FA
Cup. However, Wigan’s implementation of a fully automated admission system
caused confusion among some of the 7,500 away fans. It was reported that fans
whose tickets failed to scan were denied entry and directed to the box office,
where they had to wait in disorganized and lengthy queues. Stadium officials at
the entrance stated that they were instructed not to intervene or allow fans
through, even if they possessed valid tickets. Typically, there would be staff
available to assist in such situations. Wigan Athletic’s decision to overhaul
their entire ticketing system raises questions as to why they chose to do so
during one of their most well-attended home games of the season. It is worth
considering how the fans who rarely have the opportunity to attend matches
might feel about this situation.