Amalgamation of Linfield Supporters Clubs issues fresh statement ahead of planned Irish Cup fan boycott
The Amalgamation of Linfield Supporters Clubs has issued a plea to “strongly encourage this fixture is not streamed” ahead of a planned fan boycott at Friday’s Irish Cup sixth round clash against Limavady United.
After the tie, which will be staged at the Coleraine Showgrounds, was selected for live BBC coverage, the Amalgamation of Linfield Supporters Clubs stated their intention to not attend.
There’s growing frustration amongst Linfield’s fanbase over the number of matches selected for TV purposes with the Blues responding by saying they’ll “seek changes to the broadcasting contract” ahead of next season.
With supporters clubs not running buses to the fixture and a reduced Linfield fan presence, it’ll impact the financial return received by Limavady from a bumper tie – but the Amalgamation have stated their desire for change to ensure “the next generation are sat in the stands and not watching on TV”.
The statement issued on Thursday read: "As per post communicated by our member clubs on 17th January relating to the fan boycott of the upcoming Irish Cup fixture, we would like to reiterate the below:
“Despite a greatly reduced fan presence in the stadium, we also strongly encourage this fixture is not streamed. Fan dissatisfaction lies at the BBC’s door and we do not intend for this boycott to boost their viewing figures.
“Again, we would also like to reiterate that this action has not been taken in any way to harm Limavady but instead to take a stand and ensure that no one team has fixtures consistently changed more than any other for TV purposes.
“Finally, we call on our governing bodies, NIFL & IFA, member clubs and the BBC to resolve this ongoing issue and to maintain the best interest for all parties regarding match days and ensuring the next generation are sat in the stands and not watching on TV.”
Limavady manager Paul Owens insists he has no hard feelings towards Linfield fans, but is disappointed his club will miss out on the financial boost.
"It’s unfortunate for us and that’s it, there’s no disrespect or bad feeling towards Linfield,” said Owens on BBC Sportsound. “It is what it is.
"I’ve been asked what I think about it and it’s disappointing for our club, it would be the same for any other Championship club.
"We did see it as the potential for a bit of a money-spinner.
"It would be brilliant to see their fans here and I’m sure a lot of them still will be, I think it’s supporter buses that aren’t coming.
"We still expect a good support. They’re the biggest club in the country and I’m sure they’ll have a good backing.”