Bolton against Blackburn isn’t one of the biggest derbies in the Premier League season, but Saturday’s battle between the two Lancashire sides — separated by 17 miles — will be watched by the biggest home crowd of the season including 1,000 fans supplied with free beer in the new Fanzone and “singing end” behind one of the goals at the Reebok Stadium.
Bolton, who have not beaten Blackburn in the Premier League at home since April 1998, have already sold out of tickets in the North Stand and Woodford Group (South) Stand. The Club still have a limited amount of family tickets remaining, which are located in the West Stand lower tier and are priced at a very affordable £26 for one adult and one child.
Saturday’s game also coincides with the launch of a Fanzone in the Reebok Stadium where the first 1,000 fans into the Fanzone will receive a free drink and will see pre-match entertainment.
“A lot of fans have got in touch asking if the club would consider hosting a venue where they can go for a drink and something to eat before the match,” said Bolton’s newly appointed fans’ liaison officer Tony Kelly. “I’m delighted to say the club has taken on board our fans’ comments. I really hope the fans get behind this and bring with them the fantastic atmosphere that we saw in our European games abroad, where they all gathered before the game to get in the matchday mood.”
Keep an eye on the TV highlights from the Reebok Stadium this weekend for Saturday’s 3pm UK time/10am ET match to see how much of a difference the Bolton barmy army can make. Bolton should be applauded for reducing ticket prices, trying to create a better atmosphere and giving back to the fans. If the experiment works, let’s hope other Premier League clubs follow suit.
