Latics listen to fans over stand

ATHLETIC has reversed a decision to close the large section of the Verlin Stand for Saturday’s home match against Crawley.

But the club still wants as many fans as possible to sit in the Chaddy End as part of a trial to improve the club’s matchday atmosphere.

The move to shut the Rochdale Road end of the ground to Athletic supporters was met with stiff opposition from many fans.

A statement said: “Any supporter who normally would sit in the George Hill stand will also have the opportunity to relocate to the Chaddy End, should they so wish.”

As well as trying to improve the matchday experience by having large groups of fans together in the same section of the ground, Athletic also says feedback from the exercise will assist when it comes to decisions about where to put home and away fans when the North Stand opens.

The club hopes to have the new stand ready for the start of the 2014-15 season.